Traffic signals in Iowa
The Iowa Driver’s License Manual shows or names everything on this page: 14 in all, on pages 11, 18, 58.
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Standard Traffic Signal
The manual does not state it
Manual page 11
Solid Red Signal
Come to a complete stop.
Manual page 11
Flashing Red Signal
Treat it the same as a stop sign.
Manual page 11
Solid Yellow Signal
Do not enter the intersection if you can stop safely. If you cannot stop safely, proceed through the intersection with caution.
Manual page 11
Flashing Yellow Signal
Proceed with caution. Yield to vehicles and pedestrians and proceed when it is safe.
Manual page 11
Solid Green Signal
Go, but only when the intersection is clear. Yield to vehicles and pedestrians in the intersection. When the light changes, traffic may be caught in the intersection, and you must give them time to clear.
Manual page 11
Arrow Signal Head
The manual does not state it
Manual page 11
Steady Red Arrow
Drivers turning left or right must stop.
Manual page 11
Steady Yellow Arrow
The left or right turn signal is about to turn red. Do not enter the intersection if you can stop safely. Complete your left or right turn if you are already within the intersection.
Manual page 11
Flashing Yellow Arrow
Yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians; then turn left proceeding with caution. Oncoming traffic has a green light.
Manual page 11
Steady Green Arrow
Drivers can proceed with the left or right turn. Oncoming traffic must stop. Do not go straight. Drive only in the direction of the arrow. Yield the right of way to other vehicles and pedestrians already in the intersection.
Manual page 11
Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB)
Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons are manually activated by a push button and are often located at intersections without traffic signals or at mid-block crosswalks. When activated, amber lights flash in a rapid pattern. Motorists must stop for anyone within the crosswalk and be alert for anyone about to enter the crosswalk when the beacon is flashing.
Manual page 18
Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (HAWK)
Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons allow pedestrians to safely cross a roadway. These beacons operate only when activated by a pedestrian. When all lights are dark, motorists can proceed with caution. Once activated, the bottom yellow light flashes, and motorists must slow down. Then the bottom yellow light becomes solid, and motorists must prepare to stop. Then the top two red lights become solid, and motorists must stop for pedestrians. After a short time, the top two red lights will begin flashing. Motorists must stop if they haven't already done so, and may then proceed with caution if the crosswalk is clear.
Manual page 18
Pedestrian Signal
Pay attention to the pedestrian signal and give the right-of-way to people walking, biking, skating, or on a wheelchair or low-speed micromobility device.
Manual page 58