UK Traffic Lights Explained: The Definitive Guide

It is also relatively common for a learner driver to focus primarily on the red light and not notice the green filter light is illuminated allowing you to proceed. A filter light may illuminate before or after the full green phase. Ensure you keep an eye on the filter light as well as the main phase lights.

TheMSPSL (Mirror, Signal, Position, Speed and Look) routine must be applied. A good level of anticipation and planning is also required. Also traffic lights at pedestrian crossings for instance, if in the distance you see people waiting, as you approach there is a high probability the lights will change. A green traffic filter light allows traffic to proceed in the direction of the arrow.

• If a green arrow is shown with a red signal and the way is clear, you may go, but only in the direction shown by the arrow.
• The MSPSL (Mirror, Signal, Position, Speed and Look) routine must be applied.
• In addition to level crossings, these signals may be used at other locations, such as lifting bridges, airfields or fire stations.
• Light signals for the control of pedal cycles (alternative types).

You must proceed slowly and with caution and only continue when safe to do so. Advanced stop lines such as the images above allow for cyclists to stop ahead of other vehicles in a bay often in a alternative colour to the road. All traffic must stop at the first line when the lights are red and avoid entering the cycle bay when stationary. Do not enter that lane unless you want to go in the direction of the arrow.

Next chapter: Tidal flow lane control signs and signals

You may proceed in the direction of the green arrow when it, or the full green light shows. Give other traffic, especially cyclists, time and room to move into the correct lane. If you are waiting to turn right and the red light illuminates, ensure you exit the junction by turning right when the remaining oncoming vehicles have dispersed.

If a green filter light is illuminated you may only proceed if your exit is clear and you must not stop on the yellow box. When red and amber lights appear together, it means you should prepare to go, but do not move off yet. This phase lasts briefly before the green light appears. Keep your foot on the brake or use the handbrake if you’re positioned on a hill until the light changes to green before proceeding once it’s safe to do so. It’s important when approaching traffic lights to be prepared to stop if they change.

When approaching traffic lights, you should watch them carefully and ensure you are positioned in the correct lane, depending on where you intend to go. If a red light appears, you must stop at the line and wait for the green light before moving off. If a steady amber light appears, you should prepare to stop, but if you are close or about to pass the stop line, you can proceed.

At some intersections, you’ll encounter traffic lights with an additional green filter arrow. If a green filter arrow appears, you can proceed if it’s safe to do so in the direction shown by the arrow, even if the other signals are showing red. These arrows are usually positioned next to the main traffic light. If a green light appears on the traffic light, it signals vehicles to go or proceed, but only if the way ahead is clear. Before moving off, watch out for pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, and other road users, especially when turning left or right at the junction. Traffic filter lights can be located anywhere including box junctions.

Although you may turn right on a full green signal, a right-turn GREEN ARROW showing at the same time indicates that turning right should be easier. Always check that opposing traffic has stopped before proceeding. If the full green is replaced by an ahead or left-turn arrow, you must wait until the right-turn arrow shows before you turn right. At signalled roundabouts you MUST NOT enter the box unless you can cross over it completely without stopping.

Light signals controlling traffic

Whether you’re preparing for your DVSA theory test, revising the Highway Code, or simply brushing up on your road safety knowledge, the subject of traffic lights is vital. Traffic lights are a cornerstone of road safety, controlling traffic flow and ensuring motorists, cyclists, pedestrians, and other road users share the roads safely. Technically it’s not illegal to block a junction unless prohibitions are in force such as the yellow box. Other advisory SRL telematics software notices such as ‘Keep Clear‘ road markings may also be in place. However, blocking a junction impedes traffic flow, so only enter it when you are certain you can clear it – even if your light is green.

See pedestrian crossing for further information on the types of crossing and light sequences. The general traffic light sequence in the UK is red, red and amber, green, steady amber and then back to red. 2 However, the traffic light sequence can differ slightly depending on the type of pedestrian crossing you are approaching. During a driving test, dealing with traffic lights will require a similar technique to dealing with junctions.

You are then advised to continue driving through the intersection. Whilst learning to drive, you will come across many traffic lights. The UK traffic lights sequence explained here is an essential part of learning to drive and the theory test.