Rules of the Road Game

Hand Signals for Drivers & Bicyclists

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Hand signals tell others what you're about to do when turn signals aren't available. Drivers need them when their signal or brake lights fail, and cyclists use them every ride. They show up on almost every written driving test.

Driver hand signals

Drivers signal with the left arm out the driver's window. The pictures show a car from behind:

Left turnLeft arm and hand held straight out.
Right turnLeft arm bent up at the elbow, hand pointing up.
Stop or slow downLeft arm bent down at the elbow, palm facing back.
Memory tip: point the way you're going. Straight out means left. Up means "right," like you're waving over the roof. Down means slowing toward the ground.

Bicyclist hand signals

Cyclists use the same three left-arm signals. Most states also allow a right turn to be signaled with the right arm straight out, which many drivers find easier to understand.

Left turnLeft arm straight out.
Right turnLeft arm bent up.
Right turn (alternate)Right arm straight out.
Stop or slow downLeft arm bent down.

When you see a cyclist signal, give them room to make the move. See sharing the road with bicyclists for more.

When and how to signal

  • Signal early. Many states require a signal at least 100 feet before a turn, and more at higher speeds.
  • Hold the signal long enough for others to see it. Cyclists can bring their hand back to the bars before the turn to keep control.
  • Use hand signals if your turn signals or brake lights stop working, or when bright sun makes your signal lights hard to see.
  • Signaling doesn't give you the right-of-way. Make sure the move is safe first.

Flagger signals in work zones

In work zones, a flagger may direct traffic with a STOP/SLOW paddle. Flagger directions take priority over normal signs and signals.

STOP
STOP paddleStop at the flagger or stop line and wait. Don't go until the flagger turns the paddle to SLOW or waves you on.
SLOW
SLOW paddleGo slowly through the work zone and watch for workers and equipment.

A flagger may also use a red flag. Flag held straight out to the side means stop. Flag lowered with the free hand waving traffic on means proceed slowly.

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Frequently asked questions

What are the three driving hand signals?

Left turn: left arm straight out. Right turn: left arm bent up at the elbow. Stop or slow down: left arm bent down at the elbow. Drivers use their left arm out the driver's window.

Can bicyclists signal a right turn with their right arm?

Yes. Most states allow cyclists to signal a right turn either with the left arm bent upward or with the right arm held straight out to the right. Many cyclists find the right-arm signal easier for drivers to understand.

When do you need to use hand signals?

Drivers use hand signals when their turn signals or brake lights don't work, or when bright sunlight makes signals hard to see. Bicyclists use them every time they turn or stop. Signal ahead of time. Many states require at least 100 feet before a turn.