Light signals controlling traffic

LDC Driving Schools

Light Signals Controlling Traffic

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Highway Code Rule illustrationRED means 'Stop'. Wait behind the stop line on the carriageway
Highway Code Rule illustrationRED AND AMBER also means 'Stop'. Do not pass through or start until GREEN shows
Highway Code Rule illustrationGREEN 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
Highway Code Rule illustrationAMBER 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
Highway Code Rule illustrationA 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

At level crossings, lifting bridges, airfields, fire stations, etc.

Highway Code Rule illustrationAlternately flashing red lights mean YOU MUST STOP

These signals are also used on other high-speed roads.

Highway Code Rule illustrationYou MUST NOT proceed further in this lane
Highway Code Rule illustrationChange lane
Highway Code Rule illustrationReduced visibility ahead
Highway Code Rule illustrationLane ahead closed
Highway Code Rule illustrationTemporary maximum speed advised and information message
Highway Code Rule illustrationYou **MUST NOT** enter or proceed in the left lane, temporary mandatory maximum speed limit and information message
Highway Code Rule illustrationTemporary maximum speed advised
Highway Code Rule illustrationEnd of restriction

Green arrow - lane available to traffic facing the sign

Red crosses - lane closed to traffic facing the sign

White diagonal arrow - change lanes in direction shown

Highway Code Rule illustration
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The Highway Code is Crown copyright and is reproduced under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Source: GOV.UK – The Highway Code. LDC's supplementary notes are © LDC. Highway Code content last checked against GOV.UK: 11 September 2026.

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