Quick Answer
A flashing yellow light means slow down and proceed with caution. You do not have to stop, but you must yield to any traffic or pedestrians already in the intersection.
The rule is simple. What makes it confusing is that flashing yellow lights appear in three very different places, and each one adds its own context.
Flashing Yellow at an Intersection
When a standard traffic signal flashes yellow, it usually means the signal is in reduced mode — commonly overnight, during off-peak hours, or after a power disruption. Cross traffic will typically see a flashing red, which means stop and then proceed. You have the right of way but should slow down, check both ways, and roll through only when it is clear.
Flashing Yellow in a School Zone
A flashing yellow light mounted above a "School Zone" sign means the reduced school zone speed limit is currently in effect. School zone speed limits are typically 15 to 25 mph depending on the state, and they are strictly enforced with heavier fines than regular speed limit violations.
If the light is flashing, slow down immediately — even if you do not see children.
Flashing Yellow Arrow
A flashing yellow left-turn arrow is a separate signal that means you may turn, but you must yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians. This is covered in more detail in our yellow arrow guide.
Flashing Yellow on a Vehicle
Vehicles may display flashing yellow or amber lights to signal a hazard — tow trucks, construction equipment, road maintenance vehicles, and slow-moving farm equipment. A flashing yellow on a vehicle does not give that vehicle the right of way, but it tells you to reduce speed and pass with extra room.
Some states (like Florida and California) also require you to move over a lane for flashing amber lights under "Move Over" laws.
How the DMV Test Asks the Question
Common test forms:
In every version, the safe answer involves slowing down, yielding to pedestrians and traffic, and not treating the flashing yellow as a green light.
Start Practicing
Take a free DMV practice test and you will see flashing-light questions in the Traffic Signs and Right of Way topics. Plain-English explanations on every question.