The black and white checkered flag is shown when the race is completed. It is flown for the first place finisher when they cross the start-finish line.

The green flag is shown to begin the race or to restart after a caution period. Green means"go", same as street driving.

The yellow flag is shown to when an accident has occurred on the track, or when a substance or debris is seen on the racing surface. When the yellow flag is flown, the cars are allowed to race back to the start/finish line, and then line up behind the pace car after crossing the line.

The white flag is shown to signify one lap to go after the leader crosses the start-finish line.

The red flag is shown to stop the race in the event of inclement weather or when the race is deemed unsafe for the drivers to continue.

The black flag is shown to a driver to tell them to immediately proceed to the pits. This flag is generally flown to signify a penalty towards a driver if his/her car is leaving debris on the track, running to fast in the pits, etc.

The striped flag is usually known as the "passing flag". This flag is shown to a driver when a faster car is behind him/her and as a courtesy he/she should move over and let the faster driver pass. This is the only flag a driver may choose to ignore.