TwinMilesFour-way stops and right-of-way rules for the DMV test
Right-of-way questions are on every state's knowledge test, and they are easy to get wrong when you rush. The rules below are the common ones taught across US driver handbooks. Your state's handbook is the final word if it words anything differently.
Four-way stop: first to stop goes first
At an intersection where every direction has a stop sign, the driver who stopped first goes first. If two drivers arrive together, yield to the vehicle on your right. If you are turning left, most handbooks also tell you to yield to an oncoming driver who is going straight. Stopping is not enough on its own: you must also check that the way is clear before you move.
Uncontrolled intersection (no signs, no signals)
If you reach an intersection with no signs or signals at the same time as another driver, yield to the vehicle on your right. Slow down and look both ways in any case.
Stop sign where cross traffic does not stop
Come to a full stop, then wait for a safe gap and give way to the cross traffic that has the right of way. Going as soon as you have stopped is the classic wrong answer.
T-intersection and driveways
- T-intersection: the driver on the road that ends yields to traffic on the road that continues.
- Driveway, alley or parking lot: when you enter a street from a private way, yield to traffic and pedestrians already on the street.
Left turns and green lights
On a green light with no arrow, a left turn must yield to oncoming traffic and to pedestrians in your path. A green light lets you go, but it does not clear the way for you. Even on green, look both ways in case someone runs the red.
Yield signs
At a yield sign you slow down and look, and stop only if needed to give way to traffic or pedestrians with the right of way.
Roundabouts
In the United States traffic in a roundabout moves counterclockwise. You keep right and yield to traffic already in the circle.
People on foot always matter
- Yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk, including when you are turning.
- Never pass a car that has stopped at a crosswalk: it may be hiding someone crossing.
- A person using a white cane or guide dog has the right of way. Stop, stay stopped until they are clear, and do not honk.
If another driver waves you on
Check for yourself before you go. The other driver may not see the whole intersection, and you are still responsible for what you do.
Right of way is also part of the most common wrong answers: see 10 commonly missed DMV questions. Specific distances and penalties differ by state, so practise with your own state's questions on its state page.
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