Yield Sign
A yield sign is a downward-pointing red and white triangular sign that tells drivers they must slow down and prepare to stop if necessary. You must give the right-of-way to traffic already on the road you're entering. Unlike a stop sign, you don't have to come to a complete stop if the way is clear — but you must be ready to. Yield signs are commonly found at merge points, roundabout entries, and intersections where one road has priority over another. The inverted triangle shape is unique to the yield sign, making it recognizable even from the back or when covered by snow. When you approach a yield sign, slow down and look carefully in all directions for traffic, pedestrians, and cyclists. If traffic is approaching on the road you're entering, you must stop and wait until there's a safe gap. If the way is clear, you may proceed through without stopping, but always at a cautious speed. Many drivers mistakenly treat yield signs as suggestions — they are legally binding traffic control devices.
Rules & What to Do
Slow down as you approach. Look left, right, and left again. If traffic is approaching, stop and wait. If the way is clear, you may proceed without stopping. Always yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
Penalties
Failing to yield at a yield sign can result in a traffic citation, typically a fine of $100-$250 depending on the state. It also adds points to your driving record, often 2-3 points.
For Commercial Drivers
CDL drivers operating large vehicles need extra stopping distance at yield signs. A loaded tractor-trailer at 55 mph needs about 390 feet to stop — plan your approach accordingly. Always account for your vehicle's blind spots when checking for cross traffic. Yield sign violations count against your CDL driving record.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a yield sign mean?
A yield sign means you must slow down and be prepared to stop to let traffic on the road you're entering go first. You only need to stop if there's traffic or pedestrians — if the way is clear, you can proceed.
Do you have to stop at a yield sign?
No, you don't have to come to a complete stop at a yield sign unless there's traffic or pedestrians you need to wait for. But you must always slow down and be ready to stop.
What shape is a yield sign?
A yield sign is an inverted triangle (point facing down). It's the only US road sign with this shape, making it recognizable even if damaged or covered in snow.