Florida Driver's Handbook
Chapter 6: Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings

6.1. Traffic Control Signals

Traffic signals are placed at intersections to keep traffic moving and to avoid a crash. Drivers, pedestrians, and bicycle riders must obey these signals, except when an officer is directing traffic. Stop on the stop line if your car is nearest the signal. Some signals change only when a car is at the stop line. If traffic signals are out of order, treat the light as if it was a four-way stop sign.

Red

traffic signal

Come to a complete stop at the marked stop line or before moving into the crosswalk or intersection. At most intersections, after stopping, you may turn right on red if the way is clear. Some intersections display a "NO TURN ON RED" sign, which you must obey. Left turns on a red light from a one-way street into a one-way street are also allowed. Anyone convicted of running a red light is required to complete a basic driver improvement course.

Yellow

Stop if you can safely do so. The light will soon be red.

Green

Go - but only if the intersection is clear. Yield to pedestrians and vehicles still in the intersection. If turning left, wait for a gap in oncoming traffic to complete a turn.

Red Arrow

traffic signal with arrows

Just like a red light, come to a complete stop at the marked stop line or before moving into the crosswalk or intersection. After stopping, you may turn right on a red arrow at most intersections if the way is clear. Some intersections display a "NO TURN ON RED" sign, which you must obey. Left turns on a red arrow from a one-way street into a one-way street are also allowed.

Yellow Arrow

Stop if you can. The light will soon be red. The yellow arrow means the same as the yellow light, but applies only to movement in the direction of the arrow.

Green Arrow

A green arrow, pointing right or left, means you may make a turn in the direction of the arrow. If the red light is burning at the same time, you must be in the proper lane for such a turn and you must yield the right-of-way to vehicles and pedestrians within the intersection.

Flashing Signals

A flashing red light means the same thing as a stop sign. It is used at dangerous intersections.

A flashing yellow light means you may move forward with caution. It is used at, or just before, dangerous intersections, or to alert you to a warning sign such as a school crossing or sharp curve.

red signal yellow signal

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