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Road Signs & Markings6 min read

Traffic Lights, Signals & Filter Arrows

Traffic lights and signals guide priority at junctions and crossings. The examiner watches whether you react promptly to changes, stop correctly at lines, and use filter arrows properly.

The full guide

Traffic lights control the flow of traffic at junctions and crossings. The examiner is watching how you react to changes, where you stop, and whether you understand advanced signals such as filter arrows and flashing amber lights.

The basic sequence is red, red and amber together, green, amber, then red again. On red you must stop behind the stop line. On red and amber, prepare to move but do not cross the line until the light turns green. On green, proceed if the junction is clear. On amber, stop unless you have already crossed the stop line or are so close that stopping would be dangerous.

Filter arrows allow specific movements while other traffic is stopped. A green arrow pointing left means you may turn left even if the main light is red. A green arrow pointing straight ahead means you may proceed straight while cross traffic is held. Always check that the arrow applies to your lane and direction before moving.

Flashing amber lights at pelican crossings mean you may proceed only if the crossing is completely clear of pedestrians. If anyone is still on the crossing or approaching it, you must wait. Puffin crossings do not have flashing amber lights — they use sensors to detect when pedestrians have cleared, and the lights stay red until it is safe.

Temporary traffic lights at roadworks follow the same rules as permanent lights. Always stop at the red light and wait your turn. Never squeeze through on amber or red at roadworks — the lanes are often narrow and visibility is reduced.

Common faults

  • Not stopping at the stop line on red — creeping forward into the junction
  • Moving on red and amber before the light turns green
  • Not stopping on amber when it is safe to do so
  • Ignoring or misreading filter arrows — turning when the arrow does not apply
  • Proceeding on flashing amber when pedestrians are still on the crossing
  • Not checking the junction is clear before moving on green
  • Running temporary roadwork lights on red or amber

What the examiner looks for

  • You stop correctly behind the stop line on red
  • You wait for green before moving, even on red and amber
  • You stop on amber when it is safe to do so
  • You read and obey filter arrows correctly for your lane
  • You check the junction is clear before proceeding on green
  • You wait for pedestrians to clear completely before moving on flashing amber

Quick tips

  1. 1Amber means stop unless you are already over the line or too close to stop safely
  2. 2Red and amber together means get ready — but do not move until green
  3. 3A green arrow only applies to the direction shown — do not assume it means go straight
  4. 4At pelican crossings, flashing amber means go only if the crossing is completely clear
  5. 5At temporary lights, the lanes are narrow — stop promptly and wait your turn

Common questions about traffic lights, signals & filter arrows

Can I go on red and amber together?
No. Red and amber together means prepare to go, but you must not cross the stop line until the light turns green. Moving on red and amber is a serious fault because cross traffic may still be clearing the junction.
What does a green filter arrow mean?
It means you may proceed in the direction of the arrow even if the main light is red. A left arrow means you may turn left. A straight arrow means you may go ahead. Always check the arrow applies to your lane before moving.
Should I always stop on amber?
Yes, unless you have already crossed the stop line or are so close that stopping would be dangerous. If you can stop safely, you must do so. Accelerating to beat the amber light is a serious fault.
What is the difference between pelican and puffin crossing lights?
Pelican crossings have a flashing amber phase for vehicles after the red light, and pedestrians see a flashing green man. Puffin crossings use sensors to detect when pedestrians have cleared, so the red light stays on for vehicles until the crossing is completely clear. There is no flashing amber at puffin crossings.
Can I turn left on a red light if the road is clear?
No. In the UK, you must not turn left on a red light unless there is a specific left-turn filter arrow showing green. The US has different rules — in the UK, red means stop in all directions.
What should I do if the traffic lights are not working?
Treat the junction as an unmarked crossroads. Approach slowly, be prepared to give way to traffic from the right, and proceed only when it is safe. If police or traffic marshals are directing traffic, follow their instructions.

Ready to put this into practice?

These guides are a great starting point, but nothing replaces working with a DVSA-approved instructor who can give you real-time feedback.

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Traffic Lights, Signals & Filter Arrows | The DTC