Common Intersection Types in NY

New York drivers meet these layouts every day. "Junction" is a UK word; in New York we say intersection.

Pedestrian crosswalks sit at many intersections; they are not a separate "intersection type," but you must yield to pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks, including when you turn.

Right-of-Way Rules

• Yield to traffic already in the intersection.
• When turning left, yield to oncoming traffic going straight or turning right.
• At the same time at right angles (no signal, or matching STOP signs): driver on the left yields to the driver on the right.
• Leaving a driveway, alley or parking lot: stop and yield to roadway traffic and pedestrians.
• Yield to pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks.
• Yield to emergency vehicles with lights and siren: pull to the right and stop.

From Chapter 5: Intersections and Turns. See also when to yield and all-way stops.

Turns at Intersections

• Signal at least 100 feet before the turn.
• For a right turn, get as far right as practical and turn into the right lane unless signs say otherwise.
• Keep wheels straight while you wait to turn left, so a rear-end hit does not push you into oncoming traffic.
• In New York City, no right turn on red unless a sign allows it.
• Watch for cyclists and mopeds on your right when you turn right.

Roundabouts and Traffic Circles

A driver who approaches a traffic circle or roundabout must yield to drivers already in the circle. Enter when there is a safe gap, then signal before your exit. Do not stop in the crosswalk while you wait. Details: Chapter 8 roundabout section.

Do Not Block the Intersection

Do not enter an intersection if traffic is backed up on the far side and you cannot clear it. Wait until you can get all the way through so you do not gridlock cross traffic.

Intersection FAQs

Who goes first at a four-way stop?

The first vehicle to stop goes first. If two stop at the same time at right angles, the driver on the left yields to the driver on the right.

What if the light is out?

Treat a dark or broken signal like a STOP sign, then follow right-of-way rules.

Are U-turns allowed in NYC?

U-turns are illegal in NYC business districts and where NO U-TURN signs are posted, and never on limited-access expressways. See Chapter 5 for the full list.

What does the road test mark here?

Poor judgment at intersections, wide or short turns, and failing to yield. See common mistakes.

Practice Intersections

Intersection judgment is one of the fastest skills to improve with a dual-control lesson. Compare driving packages.

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About the author

Amir writes for Drive Rite Academy, a driving school serving Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan and Staten Island.

Reviewed by

Michael, Professional Driving Instructor at Drive Rite Academy.

How we made this guide

We checked every rule in this guide on the official New York DMV pages listed below on October 15, 2026. Prices come from Drive Rite's current price list. Rules can change, so check the linked pages before you go. If you spot something out of date, let us know and we will fix it.

Sources: NY DMV, Chapter 5 Intersections and Turns; NY DMV, Chapter 8 Defensive Driving; NY DMV, Class D scoring summary.