What is the motorcycle hand signal for stop?

Use this motorcycle practice test question to prepare for the real written exam at the DMV or during your motorcycle safety course. 

What is the motorcycle hand signal for stop?

1. Right arm extended straight down with the palm flat and facing backwards. 
2. Left arm extended straight down with the palm flat and facing backwards. 
3. Left arm extended straight up with the palm flat and facing backwards. 
4. Right arm extended straight up with the palm flat and facing backwards. 

Find the answer to this question and an explanation below. 

Answer

This topic may show up on your motorcycle permit test. 

The answer is: B. Left arm extended straight down with the palm flat and facing backwards. 

How’d you do? Learn more about this motorcycle topic below. 

Explanation: Motorcycle Hand Signals

In order to pass your motorcycle permit exams and to become a safe rider, it’s important to know why a particular answer on the motorcycle written test is correct. 

Knowing your hand signals when riding a motorcycle can be useful in a number of situations. 

First, they can be used to quickly and clearly communicate with other riders during a group ride. When you’re preparing for a group ride, one of the first things you should do is review the hand signals with all the other riders. 

Additionally, hand signals can help communicate to other drivers that you intend to turn, slow down, or stop. 

Since a motorcycle’s lights and signals are much smaller than a passenger car, it can be difficult for other drivers to see them. This can be especially true when the sun is bright or when visibility is reduced. 

In these situations, or in situations when your signals have malfunctioned, you should use your hand signals to communicate your intentions. 

The motorcycle hand signal for stop is the left arm extended straight down with the palm flat and facing behind you. 

This signal communicates to other riders and other motorists that you intend to slow down and come to a stop. 

You can find more information about this topic in the motorcycle rider’s handbook.

Check out more motorcycle permit test questions and answers here.

Find in-depth articles for new riders in our section dedicated to learning how to ride a motorcycle.

Plus, check out an overview of the requirements to get a motorcycle endorsement in each state.