Green Flag – Go!
The green flag is waved by the starter to indicate the beginning of an open track run group session or a restart after a caution[cite: 4, 5]. It indicates that the course is clear of any obstacles or debris[cite: 6].
Action: Resume at track speed.
Yellow Flag – Caution
Stationary: Problem ahead; drivers must slow and not pass[cite: 8, 9].
Waving: Immediate danger; be prepared to stop and do not pass[cite: 9, 10]. You may close the distance to the car immediately in front[cite: 10].
Action: Slow down. ABSOLUTELY NO PASSING.
Waving: Immediate danger; be prepared to stop and do not pass[cite: 9, 10]. You may close the distance to the car immediately in front[cite: 10].
Red Flag – Stop!
The track is closed due to hazardous conditions such as weather, accidents, or surface issues like oil[cite: 13, 14]. This often means the track is completely blocked with no safe route through[cite: 15].
Action: Come to a stop as quickly and safely as possible[cite: 17].
Black Flag – Consultation
Furled (Pointed): A warning that officials saw an infraction; no stop required, but do not repeat the action[cite: 33, 34].
Waving: Indicates a driving infraction; bring the car to the hot pit on the next lap to see the Steward[cite: 28, 29].
All Corners (Black Flag All): Entire group is being called in; proceed at a reduced pace to the hot pit[cite: 31, 32].
Action: Exit track at next opportunity.
Waving: Indicates a driving infraction; bring the car to the hot pit on the next lap to see the Steward[cite: 28, 29].
All Corners (Black Flag All): Entire group is being called in; proceed at a reduced pace to the hot pit[cite: 31, 32].
Mechanical (Meatball)
Indicates a serious mechanical problem that can endanger the driver or others, or that the vehicle has exceeded the event's sound limit[cite: 36, 37]. Bring the car to the hot pit on the next lap[cite: 35].
Action: Pull off-line immediately and return to pits for inspection.
Blue Flag – Courtesy Passing
A faster car is following closely behind; you should allow them to pass at the next passing zone[cite: 43]. A waving flag indicates you are about to be overtaken; facilitate a safe pass to avoid a black flag[cite: 44, 46].
Action: Facilitate a safe pass (Point-by).
Surface Flag – Change in Surface
Indicates oil, water, or another substance causing a change in the racing surface ahead[cite: 47]. It is displayed for 2 laps, then lowered, but the hazard may remain[cite: 47].
Action: Use caution and adjust your line.
White Flag – Slow Vehicle
Indicates a slow-moving vehicle (tow truck, ambulance, or disabled vehicle) is on course[cite: 20, 21]. Use caution and do not pass unless waved by[cite: 21].
Action: Use caution. Do not pass unless waved by.
Checkered Flag – Session Over
Waved by the starter to indicate the finish of the open track session[cite: 22, 23]. Maintain concentration, complete the lap at a slightly reduced pace, and exit the track[cite: 25].
Action: Complete a cool-down lap and return to pits.