These are the common flags that you will see at a track day. You should know what each of these flags mean before attending a track day. Some organizations might also use a couple more flags like the yellow flag with red stripes (debris flag), or the green flag with black stripes (oil flag). At the riders meeting, you will get a review of the flags that will be used so pay attention when they are going over the flags.

Green Flag:
The green flag means that the track is open. Before getting on the track the track marshal will either display the green or red flag. If the green flag is being displayed, the track marshal will wave you through if it is safe to do so. While the green flag is displayed you can ride at a full pace.

Red Flag:
When the track marshal is displaying the red flag, you will not be allowed to enter the track. The red flag means that the track is closed, or that a serious crash requiring medical attention has occurred. While riding if you see a red flag at one of the corner towers or from the Start/Finish line, then you need to put your left hand in the air to acknowledge the flag and let others around you know that you will be doing something unpredictable. After you signal, slow your pace. At some tracks you will be required to stop on the track while other tracks like MMP, you will continue around the track until you get to the track exit. If you are at a track where you must stop on the track, do so slowly so others around you can safely stop as well. On these tracks, they can't roll out the medical team until every rider on the track is completely stopped. So pay attention for this flag, it will be preceded by the yellow flag. Also, if you must stop on the track do not do so just over a blind hill. Once you see the black, yellow, or green flag from the next corner station continue around the track until you get to the track exit, then exit the track.

Yellow Flag:
When you see the yellow flag, it means that there is a hazard ahead. This hazard could be water on the track, dirt or parts on the track, or a downed rider. The yellow flag means to roll off the throttle somewhat (about 60 - 70% of your normal pace), so you are in complete control of your bike. This does not mean, stop or to continue at a snail pace. While in a yellow flag condition, do not pass other riders. If the yellow flag is waiving it means that the problem or hazard is immediately ahead. You will normally see the first yellow flag two corners before the problem or hazard. Passing and resumption of full speed is not allowed until you pass (a) the incident, (b) a subsequent, occupied flag station where the yellow flag is not displayed or (c) a green flag.

Black Flag:
If the black flag is pointed directly at you, it means that there is something going on with you or your bike that may be a safety concern. Raise your arm and move off the racing line in case you are leaking fluids. Leave the track when you reach the exit point. Go to the hot pit area and wait for the track marshal to explain what the problem is. Some track day providers will use the meatball flag for this, but it will be covered during the riders meeting. If you see a black flag being waived, it means that the session is being ended prematurely, so the track can be cleaned. Continue around the track at a normal pace until you get to the track exit.

Meat Ball Flag: Some track day providers will use the meatball flag to indicate there is a problem with either you or your bike. If this flag is pointed directly at you, raise your arm and move off the race line in case you are leaking fluids. Continue around the track until you reach the exit point. In the hot pit area talk with the track marshal to find out why you were flagged.

Checkered Flag
The checkered flag means it's the end of the session or the end of the day. When you see this flag continue around the track until you reach the exit point. Don't be the guy that takes a victory lap, and holds up the next group.