Light Signals

Browse 15 signs in this category

15 signs

Traffic light signals

RED means ‘Stop’. Wait behind the stop line on the carriageway

RED AND AMBER also means ‘Stop’. Do not pass through or start until GREEN shows

GREEN means you may go on if the way is clear. Take special care if you intend to turn left or right and give way to pedestrians who are crossing

AMBER means ‘Stop’ at the stop line. You may go on only if the AMBER appears after you have crossed the stop line or are so close to it that to pull up might cause an accident

A GREEN ARROW may be provided in addition to the full green signal if movement in a certain direction is allowed before or after the full green phase. If the way is clear you may go but only in the direction shown by the arrow. You may do this whatever other lights may be showing. White light signals may be provided for trams

Flashing red lights

Alternately flashing red lights mean YOU MUST STOP

Motorway signals

You MUST NOT proceed further in this lane

Change lane

Reduced visibility ahead

Lane ahead closed

Temporary maximum speed advised and information message

Leave motorway at next exit

Temporary maximum speed advised

End of restriction

Lane control signals

Two-way traffic straight ahead

Understanding traffic light signals

UK traffic lights follow a fixed sequence: red, red and amber together, green, amber, then back to red. Red means stop and wait behind the stop line. Red and amber together also means stop — do not pass through until green shows. Amber on its own means stop, unless you have already crossed the stop line or are so close that pulling up might cause a collision.

You will also meet other light signals on the road. A flashing amber light at a pelican crossing means you may proceed if the crossing is clear. Flashing red lights at level crossings, lifting bridges and fire stations mean you must stop. On the motorway, a red X above your lane means the lane is closed and you must move out of it.

Theory test tip

Questions about the amber light and about flashing signals at crossings come up regularly, so make sure you know the full light sequence and its exceptions before test day.