California DMV Permit Test (Class C)Rules of the Road and Right-of-WayEasy

You are approaching an intersection with a flashing red traffic light. What does this light indicate?

  1. AStop completely before the intersection, then proceed when safe.
  2. BProceed with caution, but yield to other traffic.
  3. CSlow down and be prepared to stop if necessary.
  4. DThe traffic light is out of order; treat it as a yield sign.
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: A. Stop completely before the intersection, then proceed when safe.

A flashing red light is equivalent to a stop sign. You must come to a complete stop, and only proceed when it is safe to do so after yielding to all cross traffic and pedestrians.

Why the other options are wrong

  • B. This describes a flashing yellow light, not a flashing red light.
  • C. This is insufficient; a complete stop is required.
  • D. While it indicates a potential issue, the primary instruction is to stop completely, not just treat it as a yield.

Flashing Red Light

A flashing red traffic light means you must stop completely before the intersection or crosswalk, then proceed when it is safe.

  • Treat it like a stop sign.
  • Stop before the white limit line, crosswalk, or intersection.
  • Yield to all vehicles and pedestrians before proceeding.

Memory trick: Red means stop, yellow means caution, green means go.

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