Local trafficUnited States
Learn traffic rules with clear explanations and visual examples in our illustrated book, designed to make studying simple and engaging.
77. Local traffic
Local traffic is traffic that needs access to a particular street or area because its journey begins, ends or requires a stop there, rather than simply passing through. Roads may be restricted to local traffic to reduce unnecessary through traffic.
The exact meaning of local traffic depends on national traffic rules. It commonly includes residents, visitors, deliveries and vehicles providing services within the restricted area.
Wikimedia.org • SPUI • CC0
What does local traffic mean?
Local traffic generally means vehicles that have a legitimate reason to enter a particular street or area, such as reaching a home, business, delivery address or other destination located there.
Is local traffic the same as through traffic?
No. Through traffic passes through an area without having a destination or other necessary stop there. A restriction allowing only local traffic is normally intended to prevent this type of unnecessary through traffic.
Who may enter a road restricted to local traffic?
This depends on national rules and the signs in place. Residents, visitors, deliveries, emergency services and certain service vehicles are commonly permitted, but the precise categories vary between countries.

Traffic rules
United States