Signs & Signals
Washington traffic signs use shape and color so you can read them at a glance. Recognizing signs and signals quickly is the foundation of safe driving and a large part of the knowledge test.
Shapes and colors
A red octagon means STOP and a downward triangle means YIELD. Yellow diamond signs warn of hazards ahead, and white rectangular signs are regulatory, such as posted speed limits you must obey.
Traffic signals
A steady red means stop and stay stopped; a steady yellow warns the light is about to turn red, so stop if you can do so safely. Green means go if the intersection is clear, after yielding to any traffic or pedestrians already in it.
Pavement markings
Solid double yellow center lines separate opposing traffic and may not be crossed to pass. White lines separate lanes traveling in the same direction, and a solid white line discourages lane changes.