Red and amber illuminated together signal that the lights are preparing to change to green.
Drivers must remain stopped behind the line until green appears; moving prematurely on red and amber is an offence.
What this sign means
This combination warns drivers to prepare to go, but it carries the same legal prohibition as a solid red light.
You must not pass the stop line or move your vehicle until the green light illuminates.
What to do when you see it
When red and amber light up together:
Key actions:
- Select first gear and prepare your control clutch/accelerator points.
- Keep your foot on the brake or parking brake engaged.
- Remain stationary until the green light appears.
How this sign is tested
Theory questions test knowledge of traffic signal sequences and emphasise that red and amber together still legally means stop.
Candidates must identify the sequence order correctly.
Common mistakes
Moving off or crossing the stop line before the green light actually illuminates.
Confusing red and amber together with flashing amber (which occurs only at Pelican crossings).
Test yourself on this one
Road and traffic signs is the biggest category in the question bank with 102 questions, and signs turn up inside other categories too. Work through them free, no sign-up needed.
Practise road sign questionsFrequently asked questions
Can I start driving on red and amber together?
No. You must remain stopped behind the line until the green light appears.
What is the complete UK traffic light sequence?
Red -> Red and Amber -> Green -> Amber -> Red.
How does red and amber differ from flashing amber?
Red and amber together appears in standard junction signals where you cannot go yet; flashing amber appears at Pelican crossings where you yield to pedestrians.