Oregon Drivers Prep: Traffic Signals | Neurodiverse Inclusive Solutions
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Traffic Signals

Traffic signals control the right of way and keep traffic flowing smoothly. If a signal appears dark, such as during a power failure, treat the intersection as if there are stop signs in every direction.

Getting Started

To operate a motor vehicle on Oregon highways or public roads, you must have a valid driving privilege. This course covers the requirements for a Class C non-commercial driving privilege, which is the standard license most drivers get.

Every time you take a test, you must first pay the test fee and show proof of identity, date of birth, and your current residence address. You can take tests at most DMV offices. The test fee is separate from any other DMV fees.

Traffic Signal Basics

Traffic signals control the right of way and provide for a smooth, orderly flow of traffic. If a signal appears dark, such as during a power failure, you should stop as if there are stop signs in all directions. When a traffic signal is out of order and flashes yellow or red, you must obey that signal as defined below.

A traffic signal showing red, yellow, and green lights

What Each Signal Means

Steady circular red traffic signal
Steady Circular Red: Stop and remain stopped until the signal changes. After coming to a complete stop, you may turn right when entering a two-way road, or turn right or left in the direction of traffic when entering a one-way road, unless a sign or police officer says otherwise.
Flashing red traffic signal
Flashing Red or Dark Signal: Treated the same as a stop sign.
Steady red arrow traffic signal
Red Arrow: Stop and remain stopped until the signal changes, except for allowed turns on red. The same turns allowed for a steady red signal are allowed for a red arrow.
Steady circular yellow traffic signal
Steady Circular Yellow: Warns you that the signal is about to turn red. Stop before entering the intersection. If you cannot stop safely, drive carefully through it.
Flashing yellow traffic signal
Flashing Yellow: Slow down and proceed with caution.
Steady yellow arrow traffic signal
Yellow Arrow: Warns you that the signal is about to turn red. Stop before entering the intersection, or if you cannot stop safely, drive carefully through it.
Flashing yellow arrow traffic signal
Flashing Yellow Arrow: You may make the movement indicated by the arrow, but first you must yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic. Oncoming traffic has a steady green signal.
Steady circular green traffic signal
Steady Circular Green: All movements, straight ahead, left or right turns, are permitted, unless prohibited by a sign. Left turns must first yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic. Right turns must first yield to pedestrians.
Steady green arrow traffic signal
Green Arrow: You have the right of way and may make the movement indicated by the arrow.
Check Your Understanding

Traffic Signals: Knowledge Check

5 questions. Answer them all, then check your answers. You can change your answers and try again as many times as you want.

1. A traffic signal is dark because of a power failure. What should you do?

2. A steady red arrow means:

3. A flashing yellow arrow means:

4. On a steady circular green signal, a left turn must:

5. A flashing red signal should be treated the same as:

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