Traffic signals in California
The California Driver Handbook shows or names everything on this page: 19 in all, on pages 33–35, 41.
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Solid red light
A red traffic signal light means STOP. You can turn right at a red light, if: There is not a NO TURN ON RED sign posted. You stop at the stop or limit line, yield for pedestrians, and turn when it is safe.
Manual page 33 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 33)
Red arrow
A red arrow means STOP. Do not turn at a red arrow. Remain stopped until a green traffic signal light or green arrow appears.
Manual page 33 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 33)
Flashing red light
A flashing red signal light means STOP. After stopping, you may go when it is safe.
Manual page 33 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 33)
Solid yellow light
A yellow traffic signal light means CAUTION. The light is about to turn red. When you see a yellow traffic signal light, stop, if you can do so safely. If you cannot stop safely, cautiously cross the intersection.
Manual page 33 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 33)
Yellow arrow
A yellow arrow means the protected turning time is ending. The signal will change soon. If you cannot stop safely or you are already in the intersection, cautiously complete your turn.
Manual page 33 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 33)
Flashing yellow light
A flashing yellow traffic signal light is a warning to PROCEED WITH CAUTION. Slow down and be alert. You do not need to stop.
Manual page 34 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 34)
Flashing yellow arrow
You can turn, but your turn is not protected from other traffic. Proceed to turn left after yielding to oncoming traffic and proceed with caution.
Manual page 34 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 34)
Solid green light
A green traffic signal light means GO. You should still stop for any vehicle, bicyclist, or pedestrian in the intersection. Only proceed if you have enough space without creating a danger to any oncoming vehicle, bicyclist, or pedestrian. Do not enter the intersection if you cannot get completely across before the traffic signal light turns red.
Manual page 34 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 34)
Green arrow
A green arrow means GO in the direction the arrow is pointing. The green arrow allows you to make a protected turn. Oncoming vehicles are stopped by a red traffic signal light.
Manual page 34 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 34)
Traffic light not working
When a traffic light is not working, stop as if the intersection is controlled by STOP signs in all directions. Then proceed cautiously when it is safe to do so.
Manual page 34 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 34)
Walking person
You may cross the street.
Manual page 35 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 35)
DON’T WALK
You may not cross the street.
Manual page 35 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 35)
Raised hand
You may not cross the street.
Manual page 35 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 35)
Flashing raised hand
Do not start crossing the street. The traffic signal light is about to change. Drivers must yield to pedestrians, even if the DON’T WALK light is flashing.
Manual page 35 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 35)
Pedestrian countdown
The numbers count down the seconds left for crossing the street.
Manual page 35 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 35)
Audible pedestrian signal
Sounds such as beeping, chirping, or verbal messages help blind or visually impaired pedestrians cross the street.
Manual page 35 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 35)
Pedestrian push button
This is used to activate the WALK or Walking Person signal.
Manual page 35 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 35)
Crosswalk with flashing lights
Some crosswalks have flashing lights. Whether or not the lights are flashing, look for pedestrians and be prepared to stop.
Manual page 41 · Open this page in the manual (Manual page 41)