Road Signs5 min read
Audible and visual warnings
When to sound the horn, when to flash your headlights, how to use hazard lights: the precise rules.
Updated 13 June 2026
What this lesson covers
The indicator: always, everywhere, without exception
The horn: only in case of danger
The three conditions for immediate danger
The horn and cyclists
Flashing headlights
Hazard lights
Recap
- Indicator compulsory in all circumstances, at least 1 second before turning the steering wheel.
- Horn: only to signal danger. Prohibited in built-up areas and at night except in emergencies.
- Three conditions for immediate danger: the user does not see you, they are heading onto the road, they are moving.
- With cyclists: no horn in built-up areas. Permitted outside built-up areas to signal your presence.
- Headlight flash: permitted day and night to warn of danger or signal an overtake.
- At night, flash headlights at junctions even when you have priority: a useful precaution.
- Hazard lights: breakdown, slowdown, jam to signal. Unnecessary if already in the jam.
- 35 euro fine for misuse of the horn.
This lesson is part of the Pass
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Unlock with the PassSources: Sécurité routière (securite-routiere.gouv.fr) and service-public.fr.