Flagger Ahead Sign: How to Follow a Flagger's Signals
The flagger ahead sign is an orange diamond showing a flagger, the worker who directs traffic by hand. It warns that a flagger is directing traffic ahead, usually because only one lane is open. Slow down, be ready to stop, and follow the flagger's signals: a STOP paddle means stop and wait; a SLOW paddle means proceed slowly with caution.
Updated on · Ver en español
DMVPermitUSA is an independent study tool. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by or operated by any state DMV, BMV, MVD, DPS or other government agency. Always check your state's official driver handbook and DMV website for current requirements.
Practice road sign questions · Take a full mock exam
Flagger quiz: 3 test-style questions
- A flagger in a work zone holds up a paddle that reads STOP. You must: Slow down and continue if no one is coming / Stop and wait until the flagger signals you to proceed / Drive around the flagger / Honk to ask permission to pass. Answer: Stop and wait until the flagger signals you to proceed. A STOP paddle means stop, just like a stop sign, and stay stopped until the flagger turns the paddle to SLOW or motions you on.
- The flagger turns the paddle to SLOW. This means: Stop completely / Proceed slowly and with caution / Speed up to clear the work zone / Turn around. Answer: Proceed slowly and with caution. SLOW means you may go, but at reduced speed, watching for workers, equipment and changes in the lane.
- A pilot car with a FOLLOW ME sign leads traffic through a work zone. You should: Pass the pilot car to save time / Follow it at a safe distance without passing / Wait for it to leave before moving / Use the opposite lane. Answer: Follow it at a safe distance without passing. The pilot car guides traffic through a single-lane section. Follow it and do not pass.
What the flagger ahead sign means
The Flagger sign (MUTCD W20-7) is an orange diamond with the black symbol of a flagger. It warns that a flagger — a trained worker who directs traffic by hand — is controlling traffic ahead. Flaggers are used where crews block part of the road, most often on two-lane roads where traffic from both directions must take turns using one open lane.
The sign is usually preceded by a road work ahead sign and often followed by ONE LANE ROAD AHEAD and BE PREPARED TO STOP signs.
Flagger signals and what they mean
The MUTCD makes the STOP/SLOW paddle the main tool for flaggers; red flags are mostly used in emergencies. Learn both sets of signals:
| Signal | Meaning |
|---|---|
| STOP side of the paddle facing you, free arm raised with palm toward you | Stop and wait |
| SLOW side facing you, free arm motioning you forward | Proceed slowly |
| SLOW side facing you, held still or raised and lowered | Slow down |
| Red flag held straight out across your lane | Stop |
| Flag lowered out of view, free arm waving you on | Proceed |
What to do
- Slow down as soon as you see the sign, and be ready to stop.
- Stop where the flagger indicates, usually at a stop line or well before the flagger, not right next to them.
- Stay stopped until the flagger clearly signals you to go; do not creep forward.
- Proceed slowly when allowed, follow any pilot car and keep your phone down.
- Be patient. Waits can be several minutes on long one-lane sections.
Test traps
You must obey a flagger's signals; in most states, disobeying them is a traffic violation. A flagger's directions apply over the normal pavement markings in the work zone. Do not confuse a work zone flagger with a school crossing guard, who holds a hand-held STOP sign for children, though you must obey both. Some work zones use an automated flagger device with a STOP/SLOW sign or signal lights; follow it the same way.
Where you see flaggers
Flaggers work mostly on two-lane rural roads during paving, bridge repairs, tree work and utility jobs, where one lane is closed and traffic must alternate. You may also meet them at the entrance of a construction site where trucks cross the road, or after a crash or storm where crews clear the road. At night, flaggers wear reflective clothing and are lit, but they are still hard to see: slow down early.
Related signs
Review the road work ahead sign, the stop sign and the lane ends sign, all common in work zones. Our road signs guide covers sign colors.
Flagger ahead sign FAQ
What does the flagger ahead sign mean?
It warns that a worker is directing traffic ahead in a work zone. Slow down, be ready to stop and follow the flagger's signals.
Do I have to obey a flagger?
Yes. A flagger's signals must be obeyed, and in most states disobeying them is a traffic violation, often with higher work zone fines.
What does a STOP/SLOW paddle mean?
When the STOP side faces you, stop and wait. When the SLOW side faces you, proceed slowly with caution.
Where should I stop for a flagger?
At the stop line if there is one, or where the flagger points, leaving plenty of space between your vehicle and the flagger.
Official sources
Keep studying
- Road work ahead sign
- Stop sign
- Lane ends sign
- Road signs test guide
- All U.S. road signs
- Practice tests by topic