Stop here on red sign: what it means
The STOP HERE ON RED sign shows where to stop when the traffic signal is red. The arrow points to the stop line.
What does the STOP HERE ON RED sign mean?
MUTCD Section 8B.10 says the sign defines and helps drivers observe stop lines at traffic signals. It may be used where drivers often go past the stop line or where it is not obvious where to stop.
Quick quiz
What does the sign at the top of this page mean?
- Stop at this line when the light is red.
- Where to stop, and where people cross.
- Wait for the green before turning.
Show answer
A. Stop at this line when the light is red. It defines the stop line at a traffic signal (MUTCD Section 8B.10). Source: MUTCD 11th Edition, Part 8, Traffic Control for Railroad and Light Rail Transit Grade Crossings: Section 8B.10, FHWA; MUTCD 11th Edition, Chapter 2B, Regulatory Signs, Barricades, and Gates: Section 2B.59, FHWA; MUTCD 11th Edition, FHWA
Where will you see it?
At signals where the stop line is set back from the intersection, such as near railroad crossings or where large vehicles need room to turn.
What should you do?
Stop behind the line the sign points to, even if it seems far from the intersection. Wait there for the green, unless a turn on red is allowed and you can make it safely after stopping.
What do people get wrong?
Rolling forward past the line to get a better view. The line is placed where it is for a reason, such as room for turning trucks or a clear view along the tracks.
Common questions
Why is the stop line so far back?
MUTCD Section 8B.10 says stop lines near tracks should be placed where drivers have a good view along the track. Elsewhere they leave room for turning vehicles.
Can I turn right on red from behind this line?
Only where right turns on red are allowed. Stop at the line first, then turn when it is safe and legal.
Compare with
Stop lines and crosswalksWhere to stop, and where people cross.
No turn on red signWait for the green before turning.
Want to test someone else? Play a road-sign quiz with friends and family.
Sources
Checked on 3 November 2026 against the MUTCD 11th Edition (FHWA), Sections 2B.59 and 8B.10.
- MUTCD 11th Edition, Part 8, Traffic Control for Railroad and Light Rail Transit Grade Crossings: Section 8B.10, FHWA
- MUTCD 11th Edition, Chapter 2B, Regulatory Signs, Barricades, and Gates: Section 2B.59, FHWA
- MUTCD 11th Edition, FHWA. FHWA lists the current version as the 11th Edition with Revision 1, dated December 2025
Sign pictures are our own simplified drawings of the MUTCD designs, which are in the public domain (MUTCD Section 1D.06). Sources and image credits.