Flying multiple flags correctly comes down to order of precedence: the rules for which flag goes where, and which is never outranked. Get the order wrong and an otherwise handsome display reads as careless. Here is how to arrange the U.S. flag with state, military, and other flags so every display is correct.
What is order of precedence?
Order of precedence is the ranked sequence flags follow when displayed together. The flag of the United States always comes first and holds the position of honor. After it come other national flags (flown at equal height and size), then the flag of a U.S. state or territory, then military, organizational, and other flags.
Where does the U.S. flag go?
The U.S. flag takes its own right, which is the viewer's left when you face the display. On a single staff with other flags, it goes at the top. In a row of separate poles, it goes to the flag's own right end (the observer's far left). No other flag should be larger or flown higher than the U.S. flag.
Arranging common combinations
| Display | Correct order |
|---|---|
| U.S. + state flags | U.S. flag in honor position; state flags after, none higher or larger |
| U.S. + other national flags | All national flags equal size and height; U.S. flag at the honored end |
| U.S. + POW/MIA | POW/MIA flies just below the U.S. flag on the same pole, or adjacent |
| Multiple states | Order by date of admission to the Union, or alphabetically |
Same pole vs. separate poles
On one halyard, the U.S. flag is hoisted to the peak and others below it in precedence. On separate adjacent poles of equal height, the U.S. flag occupies the position of honor at the end and all national flags fly at the same height. Never fly another nation's flag above the U.S. flag in peacetime, and never fly any flag above the U.S. flag on the same pole.
Military and organizational flags
When the service flags are displayed together, they follow their own order: Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, then Coast Guard. Organizational, school, and commemorative flags (including an America 250 flag) come after government flags in the sequence.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Flying a state or commemorative flag higher than the U.S. flag.
- Using a larger flag for anything other than the U.S. flag in the group.
- Putting the U.S. flag on the wrong end of a row (it belongs at its own right).
- Leaving any flag in the group unlit at night.
Frequently asked questions
Which side does the American flag go on?
Its own right, which is the observer's left when facing the display.
Can two flags share one pole?
Yes; the U.S. flag goes at the top, others below in order of precedence.
Where does a commemorative flag like America 250 rank?
After government flags, with organizational and decorative flags; the U.S. flag still leads.
The bottom line
The rule is simple once you know it: the U.S. flag leads and is never outranked, national flags fly equal, then state, then military and other flags. Arrange your poles to honor that order and any multi-flag display, including one featuring the America 250 flag, will be correct.