Right of way at intersections: who goes first when there’s no signal
Right-of-way isn’t really a sign - it’s a rule. But it’s the topic that produces more wrong answers on the permit test than any other category. The reasons: scenarios are abstract, multiple cars are involved, and the right answer depends on a specific order of priority that most drivers never consciously think about.
Where you’ll see right of way at intersections
Every uncontrolled intersection (no stop signs, no signals). Every four-way stop. Every roundabout. Every T-intersection.
What to do
First, vehicles already in the intersection have right of way over those entering. Second, at a four-way stop with simultaneous arrival, the vehicle on the right goes first. Third, at a T-intersection without controls, vehicles on the through street have right of way over vehicles on the terminating street. Fourth, in roundabouts, traffic already in the circle has right of way over vehicles entering.
Common test traps
Two cars approaching a four-way stop simultaneously, both planning to turn left. Who goes first? The answer most exams want: the driver on the right has right of way, even though both are turning left. Another trap: the driver of the vehicle on a paved road has right of way over a vehicle on an unpaved road at uncontrolled intersections - most people don’t know this rule.
Sample questions on right of way at intersections
Here are 4 practice questions on this topic. Tap to reveal the answer.
Question 1: What are the potential penalties for failing to yield the right of way?
- Fine up to $500 and license suspension for 90 days
- Fine up to $2000 and license suspension for 1 year
- Fine up to $1000 and license suspension for 180 days
Correct: Fine up to $1000 and license suspension for 180 days
Why: A driver who fails to yield could receive a fine of up to $1000 and suspension of their driver’s license for 180 days.
Question 2: In Colorado, if you encounter a malfunctioning traffic signal at an intersection, how should you proceed?
- Proceed through the intersection with caution at normal speed
- Wait until the signal starts working properly
- Treat the intersection as a four-way stop
Correct: Treat the intersection as a four-way stop
Why: According to the Colorado Driver Handbook, if the traffic signal is not operating or is malfunctioning, you must treat the intersection as a four-way stop. This ensures safe and orderly traffic flow through the intersection.
Question 3: What shape is a yield sign?
- Triangular
- Diamond
- Octagon
Correct: Triangular
Why: A yield sign is a red and white or yellow and black that is triangular shaped displaying the word ‘YIELD’ or ‘YIELD RIGHT OF WAY.’
Question 4: When sharing the road with pedestrians, what should drivers prioritize?
- Maintaining traffic flow speed
- Honking to alert pedestrians
- Yielding right-of-way and exercising caution
Correct: Yielding right-of-way and exercising caution
Why: Drivers must always yield the right-of-way to pedestrians and exercise caution, as pedestrian safety takes priority over maintaining traffic flow according to DMV rules.
Practice right of way at intersections in your state
This topic is heavily tested across all 50 states. Here are some popular state pages that include right of way at intersections practice questions: Texas permit test practice, Pennsylvania permit test practice, Ohio permit test practice, Georgia permit test practice, North Carolina permit test practice. Or browse all 50 states + DC.
FAQ
How often do right of way at intersections appear on the DMV permit test?
They show up on virtually every state’s permit test. Expect at least 1-3 questions on right of way at intersections on a 25-question exam, more on longer exams.
What’s the most common mistake on right of way at intersections questions?
Two cars approaching a four-way stop simultaneously, both planning to turn left.
Are right of way at intersections the same in every state?
Mostly yes - sign shapes and colors are federally standardized through the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). State-specific rules layer on top, especially for fines, lane rules, and time-of-day variations.
Where can I practice questions about right of way at intersections?
DMV Ready includes practice questions on right of way at intersections for every state. Same exam format as your real DMV test.
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