Yield Sign — Meaning

By DMV Master Editorial Team Updated April 28, 2026 Also: YIELD

Category: Regulatory
Shape: Inverted Triangle
Colors: Red, White
Text: YIELD
MUTCD Code: R1-2

What does the Yield Sign mean?

The Yield sign is a downward-pointing triangle with red border and white interior bearing the word "YIELD". It instructs drivers to slow down and give the right of way to crossing traffic and pedestrians, but allows you to proceed without a full stop if the way is clear.

What to do when you see this sign

1
Slow down as you approach the sign
2
Give the right of way to all crossing traffic and pedestrians
3
Stop completely if needed to avoid a collision
4
Proceed only when you can do so safely without forcing other drivers to slow down

Where you'll see it

At highway on-ramps and merging lanes
At T-intersections where a side road meets a main road
At roundabout entries
Where two-way traffic merges into one lane

Test trap: don't get caught by this

Yield is NOT the same as Stop. Coming to a full stop when not necessary can cause rear-end collisions; failing to yield when needed is a violation. Learn to distinguish — slow and assess, stop only if required.

Practice questions about the Yield Sign

Test your knowledge with real DMV-style questions, each with the correct answer and explanation.

A flashing yellow traffic light at an intersection in Ohio means:

View answer & explanation

What does this sign indicate?

View answer & explanation

A triangular sign is most commonly used to mean ____.

View answer & explanation

Red signs are commonly used for ____.

View answer & explanation

What does a green arrow mean?

View answer & explanation

What shape is a yield sign?

View answer & explanation

States that test this sign

The Yield Sign appears in DMV practice tests for 50 states. Click any state to see its full DMV practice page.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to come to a complete stop at a Yield sign?

Only if necessary to avoid a collision. The Yield sign requires you to slow down and let other traffic go first; you may continue without stopping if the way is clear.

Who has the right of way at a Yield sign?

The traffic on the road you are entering or merging into has the right of way. You must wait for a safe gap before proceeding.

What is the difference between Yield and Merge signs?

A Yield sign requires you to give right of way and stop if needed. A Merge sign warns that two lanes are joining; both drivers should adjust speed to merge smoothly, with the joining driver typically yielding.