Signs, signals and pavement markings
You come to an intersection where the traffic signal is a flashing red light. What does it require you to do?
- Stop completely, then go when it is safe, as you would at a STOP sign. Correct answer
- Slow down and proceed with caution without stopping.
- Stop and remain stopped until the light changes to green.
Why
A flashing red signal works like a STOP sign: come to a full stop, check traffic in every direction, and go when it is safe. It will not turn green, so waiting for a green light would leave you sitting there indefinitely. Slowing without stopping is what a flashing yellow light asks for, and confusing the two colors is the classic mistake here. Where do you stop? Behind the limit line, or before the crosswalk if there is no limit line, or before entering the intersection if there is neither. Once stopped, the usual right-of-way rules decide who goes first.
Where this comes from
California Driver's Handbook, DL 600 ENGLISH (REV. 6/2025). The correct answer is Stop completely, then go when it is safe, as you would at a STOP sign..