California intersections and lane markings: five decisions to practice

For California intersection questions, identify the road users and controls before deciding who proceeds. For lane questions, identify the line color and pattern, then check whether the intended movement is allowed and safe. Neither a gap in traffic nor a familiar route overrides a restriction.

1. Who must yield at an uncontrolled intersection?

Without STOP or YIELD signs, the vehicle that arrives first has the right-of-way. If you arrive together, yield to the vehicle, bicyclist or pedestrian on your right. At a four-way stop, stop completely and use the same arrival-order rule.

At a T intersection without STOP or YIELD signs, traffic and pedestrians on the through road have the right-of-way. Yield to pedestrians crossing, including at unmarked crosswalks, and never insist on priority if doing so risks a collision.

2. What changes when you turn left?

A left-turning driver yields to oncoming traffic close enough to be dangerous and to pedestrians crossing. A green light does not automatically make every turn protected. Compare the signal and the path you will cross before selecting an answer.

3. Who goes first at a roundabout?

Reduce speed as you approach and yield to traffic already in the roundabout. Watch for pedestrians and choose the lane appropriate to the posted signs and your exit. Enter to the right and travel counterclockwise. Signal when exiting. If you miss your exit, continue around to it again; do not stop or cut across traffic to reach it.

4. What do the markings separate?

Yellow markings generally separate opposing traffic; white markings separate lanes moving in the same direction. A broken yellow line alongside your lane can permit passing when safe. Double solid white lines must not be crossed for a lane change. A single set of double solid yellow lines prohibits passing, but you may cross it for a left turn into or out of a driveway or private road, or for a lawful U-turn. Two sets of double solid yellow lines at least two feet apart form a barrier: cross only at designated openings. A center two-way left-turn lane is for preparing and making a left turn or U-turn, not passing; drive in it for no more than 200 feet.

5. Is a mirror check enough to change lanes?

No. The handbook directs drivers to signal, check mirrors and look over the appropriate shoulder for blind spots before moving. A permissible lane boundary does not establish that another road user is absent.

A study exercise

Draw two lanes and an intersection. Change just one element at a time: add a pedestrian, change the signal to an arrow, or change a broken line to double solid white. Explain which part of your decision changes and locate its handbook reference. Use the mistake-log method for any uncertainty.

Official sources

Reviewed October 29, 2026: California laws and rules of the road, navigating the roads and safe driving.