A left turn sign tells you whether turning left is allowed, required, or forbidden at that intersection

Left turn signs come in three main types, and each one changes what you're allowed to do. A green left turn arrow means you have the right of way and can turn left safely — oncoming traffic is stopped. A yellow left turn arrow means a protected left turn phase is ending; you can still turn left, but you must yield to oncoming traffic. A red left turn arrow means no left turns are permitted during that signal phase, even if the main traffic light is green. Some intersections also use a no left turn sign (a left arrow with a line through it), which means left turns are banned at that location entirely, at all times.

The reason these signs exist is safety. Left turns cross oncoming traffic, making them the most dangerous maneuver at an intersection. Signs and arrows control when and where that crossing happens, reducing collisions. Understanding which sign you're facing tells you whether you have protection from oncoming cars or whether you need to yield.

Key Takeaways

  • A green left turn arrow gives you the right of way; oncoming traffic is stopped and you can turn without yielding.
  • A yellow left turn arrow means the protected phase is ending; you can still turn but must yield to oncoming traffic.
  • A red left turn arrow prohibits left turns during that signal phase, even if the main green light is on.
  • A no left turn sign (arrow with a line through it) bans left turns at that location at all times, and violating it can result in a ticket.

Green Left Turn Arrow: You Have the Right of Way

When you see a green left turn arrow, oncoming traffic is stopped by a red light. You do not need to yield. Turn left as soon as it is safe to do so, and complete your turn before the arrow changes. This is the safest time to turn left because the intersection is controlled in your favor.

The green arrow typically appears on its own, separate from the main traffic light. Some intersections show it above the main light; others show it to the side. Pay attention to which light controls your lane. If you are in a left turn lane, the arrow above or beside that lane is what governs your movement, not the main traffic light.

Yellow Left Turn Arrow: Yield to Oncoming Traffic

A yellow left turn arrow means the protected left turn phase is ending. You can still turn left, but you no longer have the right of way. You must yield to any oncoming traffic that is moving through the intersection. This phase typically lasts a few seconds and gives drivers a chance to complete turns that started during the green arrow.

If you are waiting to turn and the arrow turns yellow, do not enter the intersection unless you are certain you can complete the turn before oncoming traffic reaches you. If you are already in the intersection when the arrow turns yellow, continue turning and clear the intersection. Stopping in the middle of an intersection is more dangerous than completing the turn.

Red Left Turn Arrow: No Left Turns Allowed

A red left turn arrow means left turns are prohibited during that signal phase. Even if the main traffic light is green, you cannot turn left. You must wait for the arrow to change to green or yellow before turning. Turning left against a red arrow is a traffic violation and can result in a ticket.

Red left turn arrows are used at busy intersections where left turns need to be separated from other traffic for safety. The intersection may have heavy pedestrian traffic, or the geometry of the intersection may make simultaneous left turns and through traffic dangerous. Respect the arrow; do not assume the main green light permits you to turn.

No Left Turn Sign: Left Turns Banned at All Times

A no left turn sign shows a left arrow with a line through it. This sign means left turns are not permitted at that location during any time of day. Unlike traffic light arrows, which change, this sign is permanent. Turning left where this sign is posted is a violation, regardless of the traffic light color.

No left turn signs are posted where left turns would create a safety hazard or traffic jam. Common locations include narrow streets, intersections with poor sight lines, or roads where left-turning traffic would block a busy lane. Some no left turn signs include a time restriction, such as "No Left Turn 7 AM–9 AM," which means left turns are banned only during those hours.

What to Do If You Miss Your Left Turn Opportunity

If you are in a left turn lane and the light changes before you can turn, do not force the turn. Continue straight through the intersection if it is safe, or wait for the next cycle. Many intersections cycle through the same signal pattern every 60 to 120 seconds, so you will get another chance.

If you realize you need to turn left but there is a no left turn sign, find an alternate route. Do not turn left anyway. The sign is there for a reason, and the ticket is not worth the few minutes you might save. Most navigation apps will route you around no left turn restrictions if you enter your destination before you start driving.

Left Turn Arrows vs. the Main Traffic Light

In a left turn lane, the left turn arrow controls your movement, not the main traffic light. If the main light is green but the left turn arrow is red, you cannot turn left. If the left turn arrow is green but the main light is red, you can turn left (you have the right of way). This separation exists because left turns and through traffic cannot safely happen at the same time.

If there is no left turn arrow and only a main green light, you can turn left, but you must yield to oncoming traffic. This is called a permissive left turn. You are allowed to turn, but you do not have the right of way. Wait until there is a gap in oncoming traffic before you turn.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I turn left on a green light if there is no left turn arrow?

Yes, but you must yield to oncoming traffic. This is a permissive left turn. Wait for a safe gap in oncoming traffic before you turn. If the intersection has a left turn lane, watch for a left turn arrow; if one appears, use it instead of turning on the main green light.

What if I turn left against a red left turn arrow?

You can receive a traffic ticket for disobeying a traffic control device. The fine varies by state and locality, typically ranging from $50 to $250 or more. Points may be added to your driving record. If you cause a collision, liability and insurance consequences will be more serious.

Do no left turn signs explore to motorcycles or bicycles?

Yes, in most states. Traffic signs and signals explore to all vehicles, including motorcycles and bicycles. Some states have specific rules for bicycles at certain intersections, but a no left turn sign is generally binding for all traffic. Check your state's vehicle code if you are unsure.

What if a left turn arrow is broken or not working?

Treat the intersection as if there is no left turn arrow. You can turn left on the main green light, but you must yield to oncoming traffic. Report the broken signal to your city or county traffic department so it can be repaired. Do not assume the signal is broken; if you are unsure, yield and wait for the next cycle.