Yield sign
What does it mean?
YIELD tells you to give priority to conflicting traffic. Slow enough to judge the situation and stop whenever that is necessary to let other road users pass safely.
What to do when you see it
- Approach at a speed that lets you stop if a conflict develops.
- Check for vehicles, bicyclists and pedestrians in your intended path.
- Enter only when your movement will not interfere with traffic that has priority.
How to recognize it
- Triangle with its point facing down.
- Red border around a white center and red YIELD lettering.
On the road
A vehicle is approaching the junction as you roll toward a YIELD sign. Slow down and wait, stopping if necessary, until it passes and your path is clear.
Don’t confuse it with
Stop sign
STOP always requires a complete stop; YIELD makes stopping depend on the conflict.
Yield ahead
A yellow advance-warning sign announces a YIELD sign ahead; the red-and-white triangle is the actual control.
Put the meaning into practice
The related quiz includes this sign and other study questions. State practice can also cover local rules; it is not an official DMV exam.
Common U.S. sign recognition, reviewed October 3, 2026. Actual sign values, additional plaques and local rules can change how you should respond.