Arm signals and others

Arm signals and others is one of the topics in the Traffic signage block of the Spanish DGT theory. How signage works: types of signs, the order of priority between them and the duty to obey them. Understanding this section well helps you answer the theory-exam questions on this topic with confidence.

In practice, this comes down to the following:

  • Red flag: indicates that from the passage of the vehicle carrying it, the road is temporarily closed to traffic of all vehicles and users, except for those who are accompanied or escorted by the agents of the authority…
  • Green flag: indicates that, after the vehicle carrying it has passed, the road is open to traffic again.
  • Yellow flag: Indicates to other drivers and road users the need to be extremely careful or the proximity of a hazard. This flag may also be used by authorized auxiliary personnel performing order, control, or security…
  • Arm extended downwards, tilted and fixed: the agent from a vehicle indicates the obligation to stop on the right side to those users to whom the signal is directed.
  • Flashing or blinking red or yellow light facing forward: the officer from a vehicle indicates to the driver of the vehicle in front that he must stop the vehicle on the right-hand side, in front of the police vehicle…

In short, the rule makes sure every road user knows what to expect in this situation.

The order of priority between signs (officer, traffic light, vertical sign, road marking) is key; many questions are solved just by recalling it.

📜 Reference legal text — Article 143 (3)

Agents may give orders or instructions to users while using the V-1 signal established by the General Vehicle Regulations, through the public address system or by any other means that can be clearly perceived by them, including the following:

  • Red flag: indicates that from the passage of the vehicle carrying it, the road is temporarily closed to traffic of all vehicles and users, except for those who are accompanied or escorted by the agents of the authority responsible for the regulation, management and control of traffic.
  • Green flag: indicates that, after the vehicle carrying it has passed, the road is open to traffic again.
  • Yellow flag: Indicates to other drivers and road users the need to be extremely careful or the proximity of a hazard. This flag may also be used by authorized auxiliary personnel performing order, control, or security functions during bicycle rides or any other activity, whether sporting or not, on roads covered by legislation on traffic, motor vehicle circulation, and road safety.
  • Arm extended downwards, tilted and fixed: the agent from a vehicle indicates the obligation to stop on the right side to those users to whom the signal is directed.
  • Flashing or blinking red or yellow light facing forward: the officer from a vehicle indicates to the driver of the vehicle in front that he must stop the vehicle on the right-hand side, in front of the police vehicle, in a place where it does not cause major risks or inconvenience to other users, and following the instructions given by the officer through the loudspeaker.
🔗 Read the official text on the BOE (Spanish General Traffic Regulations)

❓ Frequently asked questions

What is arm signals and others?
Arm signals and others is a DGT theory topic within the «Traffic signage» block, governed by Artículo 143 (3) of the Spanish General Traffic Regulations. Above you will find a simple explanation and the reference legal text.
Does this topic appear in the DGT theory exam?
Yes. Every section of the General Traffic Regulations can appear in the theory exam. To practise with real questions, go to the TraficoTest platform.
Where is it regulated (Article 143 (3))?
This content comes from Article 143 (3) of the Spanish traffic regulations. You can read the official text on the BOE.

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