Right of Way: The Most Confusing DMV Topic
Right of way questions are some of the trickiest on the DMV test. Here is how to get them right every time.
The Golden Rule
Right of way is not something you "have" — it is something you "give." Even if you technically have the right of way, you must always yield to avoid an accident.
4-Way Stop Intersection
Rule 1: The first vehicle to arrive goes first.
Rule 2: If two vehicles arrive at the same time, the vehicle on the right goes first.
Rule 3: If two vehicles arrive at the same time from opposite directions and one is turning left, the vehicle going straight goes first.
Uncontrolled Intersection (No Signs or Signals)
Yield to the vehicle on your right. Slow down and be prepared to stop.
T-Intersection
Vehicles on the through road (the top of the T) have the right of way. Vehicles on the dead-end road must yield.
Roundabouts
Turning Left
When turning left, you must always yield to oncoming traffic going straight or turning right.
Pedestrians
Pedestrians have the right of way at all marked and unmarked crosswalks. You must stop for them.
Emergency Vehicles
When you hear a siren or see flashing lights, pull over to the right and stop. Wait until the emergency vehicle has passed.
School Buses
When a school bus displays flashing red lights and its stop arm, all traffic must stop from both directions — unless separated by a physical median.
Practice Right of Way Questions
Take a free practice test with right of way questions for your state.