The Official UK Traffic Light Sequence\n\nIn Great Britain, traffic lights follow a strict, standardized sequence designed to keep traffic moving safely and predictably. Understanding what each stage of this sequence means is a core requirement for passing your DVSA theory test:\n\n* RED: This means "Stop". You must wait completely behind the solid white stop line on the road surface. Passing this line while the light is red is a serious traffic violation and highly dangerous.\n* RED AND AMBER: This also means "Stop". Do not pass through or start to accelerate. This phase is a signal to prepare your vehicle to move (such as selecting first gear and finding the bite point) but you must remain stationary until the green light shows.\n* GREEN: This means you may proceed, but only if the way is clear. You must take extra care when turning left or right, and you must always give way to any pedestrians who are already crossing the road.\n* AMBER: This means "Stop" at the stop line. You should only continue past the line if the amber light appears after you have already crossed the line, or if you are so close to it that stopping suddenly might cause an accident.\n\n## Stopping on Amber: The Rules and Safety Margins\n\nOne of the most common points of confusion for learner drivers—and a frequent source of theory test questions—is how to react when a traffic light turns amber. \n\nThe rule in the Highway Code is clear: you must stop at the stop line unless it is unsafe to do so. To make this decision safely in real-world driving, you must practice situational awareness. If you are approaching a traffic light that has been green for a long time, treat it as a "stale green" and expect it to change. Check your mirrors early so you know what is behind you. If the light changes to amber, you can quickly assess whether a smooth stop is possible or if braking would risk a rear-end collision with a closely following vehicle.\n\n## Green Filter Arrows and Priority\n\nAt busy intersections, traffic lights are often fitted with additional green arrows known as filter signals. These allow traffic to move in a specific direction even if the main traffic signal is showing red.\n\nIf a green arrow illuminates, you may proceed in the direction shown by the arrow, regardless of any other lights. This indicates that oncoming traffic has been held by a red signal, allowing you to turn safely without yielding to oncoming cars. However, you must still look out for pedestrians, emergency vehicles, or any traffic that might still be clearing the junction from the previous phase.\n\n## Pedestrian Crossings and Light Sequences\n\nIn Great Britain, signal-controlled pedestrian crossings have specific rules that you must know for your theory exam:\n\n* Pelican Crossings: These are controlled by the pedestrian. They feature a unique flashing amber light phase for drivers. During the flashing amber phase, you must give way to any pedestrians who are currently on the crossing. If the crossing is completely clear, you are allowed to proceed.\n* Puffin and Toucan Crossings: Unlike pelican crossings, puffin and toucan crossings do not have a flashing amber phase. They use sensor technology to detect when pedestrians are crossing and follow the standard UK traffic light sequence.\n* Advanced Stop Lines: At many signal-controlled junctions, you will see a cycle box marked on the road in front of the main stop line. Drivers must stop behind the first white line to allow cyclists to position themselves ahead of traffic, giving them a safe head start when the light turns green.