A U-turn is a turn made to reverse direction and go back the way you came — essentially a sharp left turn. California has specific laws and safety guidelines for when and where U-turns are permitted.
✅ When U-Turns Are Allowed
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Across double yellow lines: Allowed if it’s safe and legal
Double yellow lines are not solid barriers — they can be crossed for U-turns or left turns unless prohibited by signs.
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At intersections:
- Legal on a green light or green arrow, unless posted otherwise
- Always check for a “No U-Turn” sign
- Never make a U-turn at a red light
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In residential districts:
- Allowed when no vehicle is approaching within 200 feet
- Ensure visibility and space before turning
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Mid-block in residential areas:
- Allowed if not prohibited, and not in a business district
- Must be safe with clear visibility (200 feet) and no oncoming traffic
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On a divided highway:
- Allowed only where a center divider opening is provided
❌ U-Turns Are Illegal:
- On a one-way street
- At or on a railroad crossing
- On a divided highway by crossing the dividing section, that is:
- A curb
- A strip of land
- Two sets of double yellow lines (i.e., double-double solid lines)
But it is legal where a center divider opening has been provided.
- On curves or hills where visibility is less than 200 feet in each direction
- Where signs prohibit U-turns
- In front of fire stations or their driveways
🔁 How to Make a Safe U-Turn
- Start from the far-left lane or a center left-turn lane
- Signal your intention
- Yield to:
- Oncoming vehicles
- Pedestrians
- Turn in a wide arc into the opposite direction
- Ensure you have enough space to complete the turn without stopping or backing up
U-turns require a wide turning radius — if the road is too narrow or your vehicle is too long, consider driving around the block instead.
🏙️ Business District U-Turn Rules
- In a business district (with shops, offices, etc. on both sides of the road):
- U-turns are only allowed at intersections or designated openings
- Mid-block U-turns are illegal in these areas
Key tip: If in doubt, don’t U-turn. It’s safer to go to the next intersection or make a legal, well-planned turnaround.