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Traffic lightsChina

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of China. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
China

32. Traffic lights

Traffic lights use coloured lights, arrows or symbols to regulate when road users may proceed, must prepare to stop or must remain stopped. Separate signals may apply to particular directions, lanes, pedestrians, cyclists or public-transport vehicles.

A green light permits movement only when the route is clear and the movement is otherwise legal. Road users must still follow priority rules, turning restrictions, lane markings and instructions from authorised traffic controllers.

Traffic lights
Traffic lights and road signs on Jinshui East Road. (China)
Wikimedia.org • Windmemories • CC BY-SA
What must a driver do at red, amber and green signals in mainland China?

Red prohibits vehicle movement, subject to the applicable right-turn exception. On amber, vehicles already beyond the stop line may continue. Green permits movement, but turning vehicles must not impede straight-ahead vehicles or pedestrians released by the signals. Obey directional signals and lane markings.

🔗 jtgl.beijing.gov.cn • Implementing Regulations, articles 32,38-41; Road Traffic Safety Law, article 47

May you turn at a red traffic light in mainland China?

On a circular red signal, a right-turning vehicle may proceed if it does not impede vehicles or pedestrians permitted to move. This does not override a red directional arrow, a prohibited movement or lane restrictions. Check the actual signals and give way.

🔗 jtgl.beijing.gov.cn • Implementing Regulations, articles 32,38-41; Road Traffic Safety Law, article 47

Can a green light remove the need to give way to pedestrians in mainland China?

No. Turning vehicles must not impede pedestrians released by the signals. At a pedestrian crossing, slow down and stop to let pedestrians who are crossing pass.

🔗 jtgl.beijing.gov.cn • Implementing Regulations, articles 32,38-41; Road Traffic Safety Law, article 47

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