The three standard hand signals for road users: left turn, right turn, and slow/stop

The three commonly recognized hand signals for drivers and cyclists are: left turn (left arm extended straight out), right turn (left arm bent upward at 90 degrees with hand up; many regions also allow cyclists to extend the right arm straight out), and slow/stop (left arm bent downward at 90 degrees with palm facing rear). These are used when vehicle signal lights are unavailable or to increase visibility, especially for cyclists.

What the three hand signals look like

The following list describes each signal precisely so you can perform and recognize them correctly on the road.

1. Left turn: Extend your left arm straight out horizontally from your shoulder, palm facing forward or down.
2. Right turn: Bend your left arm upward at the elbow to form a 90-degree angle with your forearm vertical and palm facing forward. (For cyclists, many jurisdictions also permit or prefer extending the right arm straight out horizontally to indicate a right turn.)
3. Slow/stop: Bend your left arm downward at the elbow to form a 90-degree angle with your forearm pointing toward the road, palm facing rearward.

Used correctly, these signals make your intentions clear to other road users when electronic indicators are not visible or not functioning, and they are widely taught and recognized across North America and many other regions.

When and where they are required

Most traffic codes require signaling before turning, changing lanes, merging, or stopping suddenly. In many U.S. states and Canadian provinces, you must signal continuously for at least 100 feet (about 30 meters) in urban areas and up to 200 feet (about 60 meters) at higher speeds before the maneuver. Cyclists are typically required to signal turns and stops when it is safe to remove a hand from the handlebar, with an exception when signaling would compromise control or safety. Drivers should use hand signals if indicators fail or are obscured, and cyclists often use them to supplement visibility even when equipped with lights.

Regional variations to be aware of

While the three-signals set is broadly recognized, details can vary slightly by country or state. For example, many places explicitly allow cyclists to indicate a right turn with the right arm straight out, because it’s more intuitive and visible. Some jurisdictions also provide additional official arm signals for communicating with traffic officers or for specific maneuvers. Always check your local driver or cyclist handbook for the exact legal standard where you ride or drive.

How to use hand signals safely and effectively

Applying the signals correctly involves timing and visibility. These tips help ensure other road users see and understand your intent.

• Time your signal: Start signaling well before the maneuver (e.g., 100–200 feet/30–60 meters) and maintain it long enough to be noticed.
• Ensure visibility: Fully extend your arm outside the vehicle or clearly to the side on a bike; avoid small or half-hidden gestures.
• Combine with positioning: Pair the signal with proper lane position and speed adjustment to reinforce your intent.
• Mind conditions: In rain, darkness, or glare, exaggerate the gesture and consider reflective gear or lights if cycling.
• Prioritize control: Cyclists should keep both hands on the bars when braking or navigating hazards; skip the signal if it would be unsafe and communicate with lane position and speed instead.

By making your signal obvious, consistent, and timely, you reduce confusion and give others the time they need to react safely.

Common mistakes to avoid

Miscommunication often stems from unclear or mistimed gestures. Avoid these frequent errors.

• Signaling too late or not at all, leaving others no time to respond.
• Using the wrong arm position (e.g., mixing up right-turn and slow/stop signals).
• Letting the gesture be blocked by door pillars, mirrors, or bags, making it hard for others to see.
• Failing to cancel the signal after completing the maneuver, which can confuse following traffic.
• Relying solely on brake lights to indicate a stop when a clear hand signal would add clarity—especially in group rides.

Clear, correct, and timely signaling prevents near-misses and builds predictable traffic flow, particularly in dense or mixed traffic environments.

Summary

The three standard hand signals are: left turn (left arm straight out), right turn (left arm up at 90 degrees or right arm straight out for cyclists where permitted), and slow/stop (left arm down at 90 degrees with palm back). Use them early, visibly, and consistently—especially if your indicators are not working or when cycling—to communicate your intentions and keep everyone on the road safer.

What are the three hand signals for the driving test?

Generally speaking, only the hand signals required on the permit or driving test are those that indicate a left-hand turn, right-hand turn, and stopping/slowing. Some states, like California, require the driver to demonstrate these hand signals as a part of the behind-the-wheel exam.

What are the three hand signals for help?

There is one main, internationally recognized hand signal for help: hold your hand up, tuck your thumb into your palm, and then fold your fingers down over your thumb, trapping the thumb. This single-handed gesture, often called the “Signal for Help,” is a discreet way to silently signal you are in danger or need assistance without alerting an abuser or aggressor.
 
How to make the Signal for Help

1. Raise your hand: with your palm facing out or towards the person you’re communicating with. 
2. Tuck your thumb: into the palm of your hand. 
3. Close your other fingers: over your thumb in a trapping motion. 

Why it’s important

• It’s non-verbal: This signal is powerful because it works in situations where speaking might not be safe or possible, such as during a domestic violence situation or a coercive encounter. 
• It’s international: The Signal for Help was developed by the Women’s Funding Network and the Canadian Women’s Foundation during the COVID-19 pandemic and has since spread across the globe. 
• It’s discreet: The gesture is intended to be silently displayed during a video call, or used when answering a door, to alert family, friends, or colleagues that you require help. 

What are the three arm signals?

And other road users even if you do not need to use them. Yourself. Before we explain on how to make these hand signals let’s go through when they should be. Used.

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.