Signs, signals and pavement markings
A pedestrian signal at a crosswalk shows a number that keeps going down. What do the numbers mean?
- The seconds left for crossing the street. Correct answer
- The seconds until the WALK signal comes on.
- The seconds until the light for cars turns green.
Why
The countdown shows people on foot how many seconds they have left to cross. It works together with the other pedestrian signals: WALK or a walking person means you may cross, DON'T WALK or a raised hand means you may not, and a flashing DON'T WALK means do not start crossing because the light is about to change. The numbers do not count down to the WALK signal, and they say nothing about when a light for vehicles turns green. As a driver, remember that someone may still be finishing the crossing as the count runs out, and drivers must yield to pedestrians even while DON'T WALK is flashing.
Where this comes from
California Driver's Handbook, June 2025 edition. The correct answer is The seconds left for crossing the street.
The rule behind this one
California road signs, signals and pavement markings goes through the whole topic, with the page of the California Driver's Handbook behind every rule.
More on signs, signals and pavement markings
- An intersection has crisscross and diagonal crosswalks that let pedestrians cross in any direction at the same time. When may a pedestrian cross diagonally?
- You are walking up to an intersection with traffic lights but no pedestrian signals. What should guide when you cross?
- You come to a STOP sign at a corner that has no limit line and no crosswalk. Where should you stop?
- You are approaching a red YIELD sign. What does it require of you?