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DMV Permit · License and Registration

When is a U-turn generally legal?

Reviewed by Jordan Morley, Editorial Lead at 247SimpleTests. Written by the 247SimpleTests Editorial Team from the official source material cited on every question.

Correct answer

Where there is no 'NO U-TURN' sign, where the driver can see clearly in all directions for a safe distance, and where local law permits — U-turns are prohibited at intersections controlled by traffic signals in many jurisdictions unless specifically signed as permitted

  1. A Where there is no 'NO U-TURN' sign, where the driver can see clearly in all directions for a safe distance, and where local law permits — U-turns are prohibited at intersections controlled by traffic signals in many jurisdictions unless specifically signed as permitted
  2. B U-turns are always legal
  3. C Only at traffic lights
  4. D Whenever traffic permits

Why this is the answer

U-TURN LEGALITY varies by state and location:

Generally prohibited: At intersections controlled by traffic signals in many states; where a 'NO U-TURN' sign is posted; in business districts (unless specific allowance); near a fire station, school, or pedestrian crosswalk; where visibility is limited (hill crests, curves); on divided highways (unless a designated break exists).

Generally permitted: Where clearly signed; on two-lane roads with clear visibility and no conflicting traffic; at some traffic signals where signed.

How to make a legal u-turn safely: Check all relevant local laws first; ensure you can see at least 500 feet in both directions (many states specify a minimum sight distance); yield to all traffic; ensure your vehicle can complete the turn without stopping in opposing lanes; signal the turn.

Source: DMV Handbook, U-Turn Rules

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About this topic: License and Registration

License and registration questions cover graduated licensing stages and restrictions, carrying your license and registration, address-change deadlines, and the point system and suspension rules. This is one of 11 Rules of the Road questions on license and registration, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

New to this exam? Our DMV Permit exam guide explains the format, scoring, and how to prepare.

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