California driving lesson · Signals, Signs & Right-of-Way
Traffic signals
A 3-minute lesson from the California course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
Traffic lights come in solid, flashing and arrow versions, and each means something different. At any signal, you must still yield to pedestrians, bicyclists and vehicles that have the right-of-way.
Signal meanings
Signal meanings
Signal
Meaning
Solid red
STOP (right turn allowed after stop unless posted)
You can turn right at a solid red light if no NO TURN ON RED sign is posted, you stop at the stop or limit line, yield to pedestrians, and turn when it is safe.
At a yellow arrow, if you cannot stop safely or are already in the intersection, cautiously complete your turn. The next signal may be a green or red light or a red arrow.
Flashing yellow arrow: unprotected turn; yield to oncoming traffic
Know the rule
On a solid green light, still stop for any vehicle, bicyclist, or pedestrian in the intersection. Only proceed if you have enough space without creating danger.
You approach an intersection where the signals are dark after a power outage. Treat it as an all-way stop: come to a full stop, then go when it is safe and it is your turn.
Check your understanding
Read the question, decide on an answer, then open it to check the explanation. These are Roadwise study questions based on the source handbook.
