Signals and hand signals

By the end of this topic you can

• You can signal clearly before moving off, turning, changing lane, overtaking, slowing and stopping.
• You can time a signal so it does not confuse others.
• You can give all 7 hand signals with your right arm.
• You can read signals from other road users with caution.

What you need to know and understand

• You must signal clearly and in good time before moving off, turning, changing lanes, overtaking, slowing down or stopping.
• A signal never gives you right of way.
• Brake lights come on automatically when you press the brake pedal.
• There are 7 hand signals in the Rules of the Road, all given with the right arm.
• At the driving test you are asked to demonstrate hand signals as well as answer questions on the Rules of the Road.
• Failing to give appropriate signals is a 60 euro fixed charge offence.

Timing and misleading signals

Signal early enough for others to react, but think about where you are. If you want to turn into the second road on the left, signalling before the first one could make a driver waiting there think you are turning in and pull out. Wait until you have passed the first road.

Cancel your indicator after every turn. Treat other drivers' signals with care too: an indicator may have been left on by mistake, so wait until the vehicle actually starts to turn.

Hand signals to traffic behind you

• Moving out or turning right: right arm straight out of the window, level.
• Turning left: right arm out of the window, moved in an anti-clockwise circle.
• Slowing down or stopping: right arm out of the window, palm down, moved slowly up and down.

Hand signals to a Garda on point duty or oncoming traffic

Hand signals help when your indicators or brake lights may not be seen or are not working, and to show oncoming traffic you are giving way at a pedestrian crossing. Your ADI will advise when to use them.

• I want to turn right: right arm out of the window, pointing to the right.
• I want to turn left: right forearm and hand across the inside of the windscreen, fingers pointing left.
• I want to go straight on: right hand raised inside the windscreen, palm facing forward.
• I want to slow down or stop: right arm out of the window, moved up and down.

Common mistakes

• Signalling too early near a side road and misleading a waiting driver.
• Forgetting to cancel the indicator.
• Assuming another driver's indicator means they will turn.
• Using the left arm for hand signals. All Irish hand signals use the right arm.

Test yourself: Signals and hand signals

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.

Go deeper

• Traffic Lights, Driver Signals and Hand Signals in Ireland
• Garda Hand Signals and Emergency Vehicles in Ireland