RACETRACK SAFETY FLAGS
GREEN FLAG (SOLID GREEN)
STARTER FLAG INDICATES THAT THE COURSE IS CLEAR
The solid green flag is waved by the starter at the starting line to indicate the start of the race. If the flag is waved during the race, this indicates that the race must be re-started.
YELLOW FLAG (SOLID YELLOW)
DANGER, SLOW… DO NOT STOP!
The solid yellow flag signals to racers to slow down and proceed with caution. Typically, this flag is waved when there is some interference on the track such as an accident, weather hazard, or the presence of debris.
BLUE FLAG (SOLID BLUE)
FASTER CAR BEHIND YOU
The solid blue flag signals to drivers to move to the outside when a faster car is approaching until the other car has passed. In auto racing this flag features has a diagonal orange stripe. Generally, it is considered proper etiquette to allow another racer to pass.
WHITE FLAG (SOLID WHITE)
CAUTION, YOU ARE APPROACHING A SITUATION!
The solid white flag generally signals to drivers the start of the races final lap. It is used for this purpose in NASCAR and INDYCAR races, however, in other racing, the flag can also serve different meanings. In some races, for example, the white flag is waved as a caution to signal that an official car is traveling at slow speeds.
BLACK FLAG (SOLID BLACK)
WARNING!
The solid black flag signals to drivers to leave the track. Typically, this flag is waved when officials determine that a racer has broken the rules, however, it can also be used when a racer is struggling with mechanical damage to their vehicle that is a hazard to other competitors in the race, such as leaking fluids or loose body panels.
RED FLAG (SOLID RED)
EXTREME DANGER – STOP IMMEDIATELY!
The red flag signals the suspension of the current session. The solid red flag is displayed when conditions are too dangerous to continue the session. Depending on the series and the circumstances, the cars are typically directed to proceed immediately to pitlane or to stop at a specific spot on the track.
RED FLAG (SOLID RED)
ROAD CONDITION AHEAD
Slippery track, due to oil, water or loose debris. Can be seen 'rocked' from side-to-side (not waved) to indicate a small animal on track.
MECHANICAL BLACK FLAG (BLACK / ORANGE CIRCLE)
PROCEED TO PITS
The black flag signals the car is damaged or driver has a mechanical problem and must return to pits as soon as possible. This flag is accompanied by the target's number.
BLACK & WHITE CHECKERED FLAG
CONTINUE TO PITS, SESSION IS COMPLETE
The black and white checkered flag is waved at the finish line to signal the end of the race. The winner of the race is the first racer to drive past the checkered flag, thus the phrase, "Taking the Checkered Flag". After passing the checkered flag, racers must return to a safe speed.