MileCheckWhat does a flashing yellow arrow mean?
You may turn, but you must yield first. Let oncoming traffic and pedestrians in the crosswalk go, then turn when there is a safe gap. Oncoming traffic may still be moving.
The arrows side by side
- Green arrow. Turn. Oncoming traffic is stopped.
- Flashing yellow arrow. Turn after yielding. Oncoming traffic may still be moving.
- Steady yellow arrow. The turn signal is about to change. Stop if you safely can.
- Red arrow. Stop. Don't turn.
Why cities use it
It lets drivers turn in gaps without waiting for a full green arrow, and it can switch to a protected green when traffic is heavy. Cities and state DOTs that install them explain it the same way, for example MoDOT (checked November 5, 2026).
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Questions, answered
Can I wait in the intersection on a flashing yellow arrow?
Pull forward only if your state's rules allow it and it is safe. Many drivers wait at the stop line until there is a gap.
Is it the same as a circular green light?
It works like a circular green for a left turn. You can go after yielding. The arrow makes that clear.