How to Signal Left and Right Turns by Hand

The essential signals are simple: extend your left arm straight out to indicate a left turn; for a right turn, extend your right arm straight out (common for cyclists) or, in the U.S. and Canada, raise your left arm at a 90-degree angle with your hand pointing up. These gestures are used when vehicle indicators fail or when cycling, and they help other road users anticipate your movements.

Why Hand Signals Still Matter

Even in an era of bright turn indicators and brake lights, hand signals remain an important backup and are a primary communication tool for cyclists, scooter riders, and some motorcyclists. Laws vary by country and state, but the core idea is the same: clear, visible gestures give drivers and other riders the information they need to keep you—and themselves—safe.

United States and Canada: Standard Hand Signals

For drivers (when indicators are unavailable)

These driver hand signals are recognized across the U.S. and Canada and are made with the left arm from the driver’s side window.

• Left turn: Left arm extended straight out, horizontal to the road.
• Right turn: Left arm bent upward at the elbow (90 degrees), hand pointing up.
• Slow/stop: Left arm extended downward, hand pointing down.

These signals are part of driver handbooks throughout North America and are intended for use when your vehicle’s electrical indicators malfunction or are not visible.

For cyclists and micromobility riders

Cyclists in the U.S. and Canada may use either the driver-style signals or simpler directional signals; most safety groups recommend the clearer, directional method.

• Left turn: Left arm extended straight out to the left.
• Right turn: Right arm extended straight out to the right (clear and widely understood).
• Alternative right turn (also legal in many states/provinces): Left arm bent upward at 90 degrees.
• Slow/stop: Left arm extended downward with palm open, or signal verbally when appropriate.

While both right-turn methods are typically legal, fully extending the right arm is usually more intuitive for nearby drivers and riders.

United Kingdom: Highway Code Guidance

Drivers and motorcyclists

Hand signals in the UK are set out in the Highway Code (Annex on signals). They are rarely needed in modern cars but remain recognized—particularly for motorcycles or if indicators fail.

• Turn right: Extend the right arm straight out horizontally.
• Turn left: Extend the right arm and rotate the hand/forearm in a circular, anti-clockwise motion to indicate a left turn.
• Slow down/stop: Move the right arm up and down with the palm facing down.

These motions account for right-hand-drive vehicles, where the driver’s right arm is most visible to others.

Cyclists and horse riders

Cyclists and horse riders in the UK typically use straightforward directional signals.

• Left turn: Left arm extended straight out to the left.
• Right turn: Right arm extended straight out to the right.
• Slow down/stop: Right arm moved up and down (where practicable), and make eye contact when possible.

These signals align closely with what other road users expect and are emphasized in safety training.

Europe and Australia: General Practice

Across much of Europe and Australia, vehicles rely on indicators; hand signals are primarily used by cyclists, scooter riders, and occasionally motorcyclists. The most commonly understood gestures are directional extensions.

• Left turn: Extend the left arm directly out to the left.
• Right turn: Extend the right arm directly out to the right.
• Slow/stop: Lower the signaling arm with the palm open, or use brake lights where applicable.

Local rules can differ by country; when in doubt, use clear directional signals and consult the national road code for specifics.

Safety Tips and Legal Notes

Hand signals are only effective if others can see and interpret them. The following practices improve visibility and compliance.

• Signal early: Begin signaling at least 100 feet (30 meters) before turning, conditions permitting.
• Make it big: Fully extend the arm; avoid subtle or brief gestures.
• Check behind: Glance and shoulder-check before and after signaling to confirm it’s safe to maneuver.
• Use lights when available: Vehicle indicators and brake lights take precedence when functioning.
• Know your code: Regional variations exist (e.g., UK’s circular motion for drivers turning left); review local rules.
• Night and weather: Wear reflective gear and use lights; hand signals are harder to see in low visibility.

Combining clear signals with good road positioning and situational awareness maximizes your predictability and safety.

Summary

To signal a left turn, extend your left arm straight out. To signal a right turn, extend your right arm straight out—though in North America an alternative is raising the left arm at a right angle. Drivers in the UK also recognize a circular right-hand motion to indicate a left turn. Whichever system applies where you are, make signals early, large, and unmistakable, and rely on vehicle indicators whenever they are available and working.

What is the hand signal for turning left and right?

Test. So today you’ll learn all about the different driving hand signals. So you can feel prepared both for the road test and a life on the roads. So what are the different hand signals.

What is the signal for turning left?

To use a vehicle’s left turn signal, move the turn signal lever on the left side of the steering column down and activate your turn signal lights about 100 feet before the turn or lane change to warn other drivers. Left turn signals can appear as a steady green arrow, which grants the right-of-way, or a flashing yellow arrow, requiring you to yield to oncoming traffic. If your turn signal is not working, you should use the corresponding hand signal, which involves extending your left arm straight out, parallel to the ground.
 
Using the Lever

1. Locate the lever: The turn signal lever is on the left side of the steering column. 
2. Move the lever down: Push the lever down to activate the left turn signal lights on your vehicle. 
3. Activate in advance: Activate the signal at least 100 feet before your turn or lane change to give others ample warning. 
4. Turn it off: After completing the turn or lane change, the signal should turn off automatically, or you may need to manually reset it to the neutral position. 

Types of Left Turn Signals at Intersections

• Green arrow: Opens in new tabA green arrow indicates a protected left turn, meaning you have the right-of-way and can safely turn without risk of collision with opposing traffic. 
• Flashing yellow arrow: Opens in new tabA flashing yellow arrow means you can make a left turn, but you must yield to any oncoming traffic and pedestrians before proceeding. 
• Solid green light: Opens in new tabIf there is no dedicated left-turn signal, you can still turn left on a solid green light, but you must yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians until a safe gap appears. 
• Steady yellow arrow: Opens in new tabThis indicates the signal is about to change to red, so prepare to stop or complete your turn if you are already in the intersection. 

Hand Signals
If your vehicle’s turn signals are not working, you can use hand signals: 

• Left Turn: Extend your left arm straight out from the window.
• Right Turn: Bend your left arm at a 90-degree angle at the elbow, with your palm facing forward.
• Slowing/Stopping: Bend your left arm down at the elbow, with your palm facing backward.

What are the three basic hand signals?

There are 3 basic hand signals:

• Slow down OR stop hand signal: extend your arm downwards with your palm facing backward.
• Left turn hand signal: hold your arm straight out of the window.
• Right turn hand signal: extend your arm upwards at a 90° angle.

What is the easiest way to memorize DMV signs?

Research suggests that visual learning is one of the most effective ways to memorize road signs. Tools like flashcards and visual apps allow you to see and memorize each sign’s shape, color, and meaning. Flashcards can be especially helpful; try grouping them by category and reviewing them daily.