Lane control signals — Tennessee Permit Test

Lane control signals over each lane are most often used where the direction of traffic flow changes during different hours of the day.

A lane that carries you to work in the morning may carry cars toward you at night. The signal tells you which way it runs now.

They are most often used when the direction of the flow of traffic changes during different hours of the day.

Lane control signals also show whether toll plaza lanes are open or closed.

Pulling up to a closed toll lane makes you stop and cut back across lanes of moving cars.

Also, these signals indicate whether toll plaza lanes are open or closed.

A red X lane control signal means driving is not permitted in that lane.

A red X means traffic in that lane is coming toward you or the lane is shut. Staying in it invites a head-on crash.

Driving is NOT permitted in this lane

A green arrow lane control signal means driving in that lane is permitted.

The green arrow tells you the lane is open in your direction, so you can use it with confidence.

Driving in this lane is permitted

A flashing yellow X lane control signal means the lane is for turning only; a solid yellow X means the lane's direction is changing.

A solid yellow X warns that cars may soon come at you in that lane. Get out of it before it turns red.

If flashing lane is for turning only; if solid direction of lane is changing

Where are lane control signals most often used?

Where lane direction changes by time of day. A lane that carries you to work in the morning may carry cars toward you at night. The signal tells you which way it runs now. Tennessee Comprehensive Driver License Manual, p.42: “They are most often used when the direction of the flow of traffic changes during different hours of the day.”