Regulatory Road Sign (R10-10)
Left Turn Yield on Green Sign Meaning & Driving Rules
The Left Turn Yield on Green sign (MUTCD R10-10) clarifies that a solid circular green light permits left turns only when you yield right-of-way to oncoming traffic and pedestrians.
Required Driver Action & Right-of-Way Protocol
Enter the intersection on green. Keep your front wheels straight (to avoid being pushed into oncoming traffic if rear-ended). Yield to all oncoming vehicles and turn only when clear.
Detailed Overview & Purpose
A solid green circular light ('green ball') gives right-of-way to through-traffic. Drivers turning left have an unprotected, permissive turn—they must pull forward into the intersection, yield to all oncoming through-traffic and pedestrians in the crosswalk, and complete their turn only when a safe opening exists.
Key Standard & Origin: Many modern intersections are replacing this sign with Flashing Yellow Arrow signals, which drivers understand more intuitively.
Where You'll Find This Sign
Mounted directly beside traffic signal heads on intersections without dedicated green arrow phases.
Common Driver Mistakes to Avoid
Mistakenly assuming that a solid circular green light gives left-turners the right-of-way over oncoming traffic.
How This Sign Appears on the DMV Knowledge & Road Test
One of the most frequently missed questions on permit exams regarding permissive vs. protected green light phases.
Legal Penalties and Moving Violations
Failing to yield on green during a left turn results in moving violation citations and full fault in T-bone crashes.
Sign Variations & Related Types
Left Turn Yield on Flashing Yellow Arrow (R10-12)
Modern signal display where a flashing yellow arrow commands yielding before turning.
When you encounter the official Left Turn Yield on Green (R10-10) on a roadway, what is your legal duty?
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