How long must you stop at a stop sign?

When encountering a stop sign, the law requires that drivers come to a complete stop before proceeding. The duration of this stop is not strictly defined by a specific number of seconds but is intended to ensure that the driver has adequately yielded to any oncoming traffic, pedestrians, or other road users.

The answer indicating a 3-second stop aligns with the general recommendation that drivers should pause for a sufficient moment to assess the intersection conditions thoroughly. Stopping for around 3 seconds allows ample time for visibility and decision-making, confirming that it is safe to proceed.

Additionally, while 1 second might not provide enough time to fully assess the intersection, and longer stops, such as 5 seconds, may cause unnecessary delays, 3 seconds is often referenced in driving theory as a practical guideline. This duration is also reflective of safety considerations, ensuring that drivers are attentive and aware before continuing their journey.