3-Way Stop Sign: Who Goes First, Meaning and Rules

A three-way stop is a T- or Y-intersection where all three approaches have a stop sign, so every vehicle must come to a complete stop. The first vehicle to stop goes first; if two stop at the same time, the vehicle on the right goes first.

What is a three-way stop?

A three-way stop is an intersection where three roads meet and each approach is controlled by a stop sign. Every driver must stop completely, then move off in turn. It works the same way as a four-way stop, but with three approaches instead of four.

Who goes first at a three-way stop?

Priority at a three-way stop follows the same rules as any all-way stop:

• First to stop, first to go: the vehicle that stops first moves off first.
• Same time: if two vehicles stop together, the vehicle on the right goes first.
• Pedestrians first: wait for pedestrians to finish crossing before you move.

How do you drive through a three-way stop?

1. Stop completely: come to a full stop at the line. A rolling stop is illegal.
2. Note your order: remember which vehicles stopped before you.
3. Move off in turn: pull away only when it is your turn, checking for pedestrians and cyclists.
4. Signal your direction: indicate before you turn left or right.

The three-way stop uses a stop sign, a regulatory sign. Browse all regulatory signs or the full K53 road signs guide, and revise right of way in the rules of the road.

Three-way stop FAQ

Who goes first at a three-way stop?
The first vehicle to stop goes first. If two vehicles stop at the same time, the vehicle on the right goes first.

How is a three-way stop different from a four-way stop?
A three-way stop has three approaches instead of four, but the priority rules are exactly the same.

Do all three roads have a stop sign?
Yes. At a three-way stop every approach has a stop sign, so all vehicles must stop.