The subject matter described in this specification is directed to a system and techniques for operating an autonomous vehicle (AV) at a multi-way stop intersection. After detecting the AV is at a primary stopline of the multi-way stop intersection, a planned travel path though the multi-way stop intersection is obtained. If the planned travel path of the AV through the multi-way stop intersection satisfies a set of one or more clearance criteria, the AV proceeds past the primary stopline. The clearance criteria include a criterion that is satisfied in response to detecting the AV is clear to safely merge into a travel lane corresponding to the planned travel path.