Roundabouts Yield to traffic in it
At a roundabout, slow down and yield to all traffic already in it. Enter to the right when there is a big enough gap, drive counter-clockwise, and signal when you exit.
CA Driver's Handbook, "Roundabouts" · CVC 21803(a) (YIELD sign)
Who has the right-of-way in a roundabout in California?
The traffic already in it: slow down and yield to all traffic in the roundabout. Enter to the right when there is a big enough gap (Handbook).
Why this rule exists
Everyone in the roundabout moves the same way, so you only have to watch one direction for a gap. Signaling out tells the drivers waiting to enter that they can go.
Step by step on the road
- Slow down as you come up to the roundabout, and look left toward the traffic already in it.
- Yield to all traffic in the roundabout. Enter to the right when there is a gap big enough to merge safely.
- Drive counter-clockwise around the central island. Do not stop or pass inside.
- Signal when you change lanes or exit.
- If you miss your exit, keep going around until you come back to it.
Common mistakes
- Driving in because you come from the right: the traffic already in the roundabout goes first.
- Stopping inside the roundabout.
- Stopping or backing up after a missed exit, instead of going around again.
- Leaving without a signal.
Questions people ask
Which way do you go around a roundabout in the US?
Counter-clockwise. You enter to the right and keep the central island on your left.
Do you signal in a roundabout?
Yes. The Handbook says to signal when you change lanes or exit.
Which lane do you use in a two-lane roundabout?
To turn right, choose the right lane and exit in the right lane. To go straight, choose either lane and exit in the lane you entered (Handbook).
Test yourself
Kees' three questions on this rule, the “Did you know?” facts and his tip come with the drive, in Voorrah! Pro.
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