California DMV Permit Test (Class C)Traffic Signs and SignalsMedium
You are driving on a street and see a traffic light with a steady yellow arrow pointing left. What does this signal mean?
- AThe left-turn signal is about to change to red; prepare to stop or clear the intersection if already in it.
- BYou may proceed with a left turn only if there is no oncoming traffic.
- CThe left-turn lane is closed ahead.
- DYou must turn left immediately.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. The left-turn signal is about to change to red; prepare to stop or clear the intersection if already in it.
A steady yellow arrow means the protected left-turn movement is ending. Drivers should prepare to stop if they can do so safely, or complete the turn if they are already in the intersection.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. This is incorrect; a flashing yellow arrow allows a permissive turn after yielding, but a steady yellow arrow means the protected turn is ending.
- C. This is incorrect; lane closures are indicated by construction signs, not traffic light signals.
- D. This is incorrect; a yellow arrow indicates the end of a protected turn, not an immediate turn.
Steady Yellow Arrow
A traffic signal indicating that the protected turning movement is ending and the signal is about to turn red.
- Warns that the protected turn is ending.
- Prepare to stop if safe.
- Clear the intersection if already committed to the turn.
Memory trick: Arrows show the way, colors tell you when to stay or play.