Red + Yellow
The signal indicates that green light is coming soon
When You See This Sign
When you see red and yellow together you should remain stopped where a stop is required or behind the stop line and prepare the vehicle for departure. Check the surroundings carefully and start moving only when the green light is illuminated.
Rules & Regulations
- When red and yellow light up together, you must not leave the stop line or enter the intersection until the green light is shown.
- The signal's purpose is to indicate that the green light will come shortly — you may prepare (engage the clutch, select a gear, release the brake) but must not start driving.
- The signal rule applies to all road users positioned in front of the relevant signal, including cyclists; follow any specific signals for rail-bound vehicles.
- Violating a traffic light signal can result in fines and affect liability in an accident, therefore red+yellow should always be respected.
Tips for Drivers
- Keep your foot close to the clutch or gear so you can start smoothly when it turns green — this improves traffic flow.
- Always check for pedestrians and cyclists at crosswalks and in the intersection before moving off, even when the signal turns green.
- Remain behind the stop line — do not creep forward so that crosswalks or intersections are blocked when red+yellow is lit.
- Be extra attentive to vehicles with their own signals (trams, buses) as they may have different priority rules even when your light turns green.
Common Mistakes
- Believing that red+yellow means you may drive immediately instead of indicating that green is coming shortly.
- Confusing red+yellow with flashing yellow and interpreting it as permission to always proceed with caution.
- Creeping over the stop line for better visibility or to 'be first' when red+yellow is lit.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Red + Yellow
How should you act when you see this signal?
- A Get ready to go — green light is coming soon.
- B Proceed without stopping because green is already showing.
- C Stop until the signal turns red.
- D Signal left and go immediately.
Exam Tip
In the theory exam you are often asked questions testing that you know red+yellow does not permit you to drive — learn the difference from flashing yellow.
Did You Know?
The red+yellow signal is used to allow preparation for starting and is included in many European signal standards to make light changes smoother.
Frequently Asked Questions
May I start moving when red and yellow are lit?
No. You may prepare to drive, but you must not leave the stop line or enter the intersection until it turns green.
Does the signal also apply to cyclists and pedestrians?
The meaning applies to all road users who encounter the relevant signal, including cyclists. Pedestrians usually have separate pedestrian signals which must always be followed.
What is the difference between red+yellow and flashing yellow?
Red+yellow means green will follow shortly and you should wait behind the stop line; flashing yellow is a warning signal meaning you may proceed with caution depending on the situation and right-of-way rules.
Can I roll forward over the stop line to see better when red+yellow is lit?
No, you should not cross the stop line or block a crosswalk. If visibility is poor, remain in place and wait for green or follow directions from traffic controllers.
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