What Does a Green Light Mean Under Irish Traffic Law?\n\nUnder the Irish Rules of the Road, a green light indicates that you may proceed past the stop line, but only if it is safe to do so and the road ahead is clear enough for you to pass through without blocking the junction. It is a common misconception among learner drivers that a green signal gives an absolute right of way. In reality, you must always yield to vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians already crossing the street or cyclists in your path, before moving. This situational awareness is highly tested on the RSA Driver Theory Test.\n\n## The Practical Application: Safe Progress vs. Hesitation\n\nWhile driving, maintaining progress is a core driving skill. On the Irish driving test, the RSA examiners closely monitor your progress at traffic lights. If a green light or a green arrow is active and the way ahead is completely clear, you must proceed promptly. Remaining stopped or hesitating unnecessarily can lead to a 'Progress at Traffic Lights' fault. This balance between safety and progress is a key concept that every learner driver must master.\n\n## Dealing with Filter Arrows and Turning at Junctions\n\nTurning at signalised junctions in Ireland often involves filter lights. A green arrow, or filter light, indicates that oncoming traffic has been stopped, giving you right of way to turn in the direction of the arrow. However, if the main light is green but the arrow is off, you may still proceed into the junction to turn if there is a safe gap in oncoming traffic. Additionally, flashing amber arrows require you to yield to pedestrians crossing the side road before completing your turn.\n\n## Common Exam Pitfalls and Driver Theory Test Questions\n\nLearners often get caught out by questions involving yellow box junctions and traffic lights. Even if you have a green light, you must not enter a yellow box junction unless you can clear it completely, with one exception: if you are turning right and are only prevented from turning by oncoming traffic. Understanding these specific scenarios ensures you avoid both critical theory test errors and dangerous driving situations on Irish roads.