USA Road Signs

Regulatory Signs
Push Button for Pedestrian Signal
Background color: white
Location: pedestrian crossings or signalized intersections
The 'Push Button for Pedestrian Signal' sign instructs pedestrians to press the button to activate the pedestrian signal. This sign is intended for pedestrians and does not require any action from drivers. Drivers must yield to pedestrians once the pedestrian signal is activated, ensuring the safe crossing of pedestrians.
Tips to remember:
If you're a pedestrian, press the button and wait for the pedestrian signal to change before crossing. Drivers should pay attention to pedestrian signals and yield the right of way once the signal changes, ensuring pedestrian safety.
Warning Signs
ROAD NARROWS
Background color: yellow
Location: on two-lane roads with abrupt narrowing
The ROAD NARROWS sign warns drivers that the road ahead narrows, reducing the space available for vehicles traveling in both directions. On these sections, it may be impossible for two vehicles to pass side by side without slowing down. The sign helps drivers prepare for potential challenges in such areas, such as waiting for oncoming traffic to pass.
Tips to remember:
This sign alerts you to reduce speed and be ready to adjust your position on the road. Remember, oncoming traffic will have limited space, so proceed with caution.
Warning Signs
ROUGH ROAD
Background color: yellow
Location: in areas with uneven or deteriorated road surfaces
The ROUGH ROAD sign warns drivers about uneven or damaged road surfaces that may require slower speeds to maintain control. This sign is often used in construction zones or areas where the pavement condition is temporarily affected.
Tips to remember:
A rough road can reduce traction. Reduce your speed and avoid sudden movements to maintain control over the vehicle.
Temporary Traffic Control Signs
Ramp Closed
Background color: orange
Location: entrance or exit ramps of freeways and expressways
The 'Ramp Closed' sign informs drivers that an entrance or exit ramp of a freeway or expressway is temporarily closed for more than one day. This sign ensures that drivers are aware of the closure period, which is indicated with specific dates and times.
Tips to remember:
Pay attention to the dates and times displayed on the sign. Use alternative exits or entrances as instructed. Stay alert for detour signs guiding you through available routes.
Guide Signs
Rest Area
Background color: blue
Location: along highways and freeways, typically 1 or 2 miles in advance
The 'Rest Area' sign indicates upcoming rest areas along highways or freeways, providing parking, restroom facilities, and spaces for travelers to take a break. The sign ensures travelers are informed about available rest stops ahead.
Tips to remember:
If you see a 'Rest Area' sign, plan a short stop to rest, especially on long trips. Regular breaks can improve concentration and reduce fatigue. Use these stops for restroom breaks, stretching, or grabbing refreshments.
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Regulatory Signs
Right Lane Must Exit
Background color: white
Location: approaches to interchanges
The 'Right Lane Must Exit' sign informs drivers that vehicles in the right lane are required to exit at the next interchange. This sign is used in combination with or as a supplement to overhead 'EXIT ONLY' signs to provide clear instructions for lane use. It ensures that drivers have sufficient time to switch lanes if they intend to continue on the main roadway.
Tips to remember:
If you are in the right lane and see this sign, prepare to exit or change lanes if you need to continue straight. Watch for additional 'EXIT ONLY' signage and plan your maneuvers early to avoid last-minute lane changes.
Regulatory Signs
Right Lane Must Turn Right
Background color: white
Location: intersections and highway approaches
The 'Right Lane Must Turn Right' sign indicates that drivers in the rightmost lane are required to make a right turn at the upcoming intersection. This sign ensures smooth traffic flow and minimizes sudden lane changes by informing drivers early that the lane is dedicated for right turns only.
Tips to remember:
If you're in the right lane and see this sign, be prepared to turn right. Switch lanes early if you need to go straight or make a left turn to avoid confusion and last-minute lane changes.
Regulatory Signs
Right Turn Only
Background color: white
Location: intersections, entrances, exits
The Right Turn Only sign indicates that only a right turn is allowed at the specified location. It is commonly installed at intersections and exits to guide traffic flow and prevent dangerous maneuvers such as going straight or making a left turn.
Tips to remember:
Remember: When you see this sign, you are allowed to turn only right. Trying to go straight or turn left will result in a traffic violation.
Temporary Traffic Control Signs
Road Closed Ahead
Background color: orange
Location: approaching road closure zones
The 'Road Closed Ahead' sign warns drivers that the road ahead is closed, typically due to construction, maintenance, or an emergency. This sign is used to redirect traffic and inform drivers to take alternative routes. It helps avoid confusion and ensures smoother traffic management.
Tips to remember:
Plan ahead and look for detour signs to find an alternative route. Do not ignore this sign, as continuing may lead to blocked roads or unsafe conditions.
Temporary Traffic Control Signs
Road Work Ahead
Background color: orange
Location: approaching road work zones
The 'Road Work Ahead' sign warns drivers that they are approaching a road work zone. It is used to inform motorists of upcoming construction, maintenance, or other work on the roadway that may cause delays or require caution. This sign helps ensure the safety of both workers and drivers by preparing them for changing road conditions.
Tips to remember:
Slow down and be prepared to adjust your speed as you approach the work zone. Follow all posted signs and instructions to ensure safety and avoid fines.
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Temporary Traffic Control Signs
Road Work Next 5 Miles
Background color: orange
Location: ahead of TTC zones longer than 2 miles
The 'Road Work Next XX Miles' sign informs drivers about the presence of road work for the next specified distance. This helps motorists prepare for possible delays and ensures safe driving through long work zones.
Tips to remember:
Stay alert and reduce speed as you approach the work zone. Maintain a safe following distance and follow all posted signs throughout the entire length of the construction zone.
Guide Signs
Route Direction Sign
Background color: green
Location: at route intersections and forks
The sign indicates route directions, showing the way north and south. The number '12' corresponds to a specific route or highway. This route may intersect with the current road, or the driver might already be on it. The sign helps drivers either stay on route 12 or turn onto it at the intersection.
Tips to remember:
Pay attention to route numbers and directions. The number '12' indicates a route that you can follow by turning as shown on the sign. If you are already on route 12, this sign confirms that you are on the right path.
Warning Signs
SCHOOL ADVANCE CROSSING
Background Color: yellow
Location: before an intersection or crossing where students may cross the road
This sign alerts drivers about an approaching area where schoolchildren may cross the road. The School Advance Crossing sign with the AHEAD plaque warns drivers about a nearby pedestrian crossing close to a school. It helps drivers prepare to slow down and enhances safety in the crossing area.
Tips to remember:
The shape of the sign resembles a house, symbolizing safety and a school environment. Remember, when you see this sign, be prepared for children crossing the road.
Warning signs
SCHOOL BUS TURN AHEAD
Background color: yellow
Location: in advance of school bus turnaround points not visible to approaching traffic
The SCHOOL BUS TURN AHEAD sign warns drivers about an upcoming point where a school bus will make a turnaround that might not be easily visible. It helps alert drivers to the presence of slow-moving vehicles and ensures they remain cautious while approaching these areas.
Tips to remember:
Think of it as an alert to slow down and watch for children or buses making turns in the area.
Warning Signs
SIGNAL AHEAD
Background color: yellow
Location: before intersections with traffic signals
The Signal Ahead sign warns drivers that they are approaching an intersection controlled by a traffic signal, which might not yet be visible. It provides advanced notice, giving drivers enough time to prepare to stop if needed.
Tips to remember:
This sign shows a traffic light symbol, reminding drivers to anticipate a traffic signal ahead.
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Warning Signs
SLIDE AREA
Background color: yellow
Location: in areas prone to rock or landslides
The SLIDE AREA sign warns drivers of potential landslide zones along the roadway. This sign is placed in advance of areas where falling rocks or debris might obstruct the road, alerting drivers to exercise caution.
Tips to remember:
The sign alerts you to be on the lookout for debris or rocks on the road. Keep a safe distance and drive cautiously through these areas.
Warning Signs
SLIPPERY WHEN WET
Background color: yellow
Location: slippery roads
The sign warns that the road may be slippery when wet. It is typically placed before the start of a slippery section of the road, alerting drivers to reduce speed and proceed with caution. Additional signs may be placed along the affected area to keep drivers informed of the continued hazard.
Tips to remember:
Focus on the wiggling car icon. The curving lines under the car resemble skid marks, symbolizing what happens when roads are slippery. The image serves as a clear reminder to slow down and drive carefully, especially when it’s raining or the road is wet, to avoid "slipping" like the car in the symbol.
Warning Signs
SOFT SHOULDER
Background color: yellow
Location: along roadways with unstable or soft shoulders
The Soft Shoulder sign warns drivers that the shoulder beside the roadway is soft or unstable, making it unsafe for vehicles to pull off or drive on it. Drivers are advised to stay on the paved road surface to avoid potential accidents.
Tips to remember:
The phrase 'Soft Shoulder' hints that the ground beside the road is not firm. Imagine the shoulder as soft ground, unsuitable for driving, similar to a surface that might cause a vehicle to get stuck.
Regulatory Signs
STOP
Background color: red
Location: intersections
The sign indicates that you must come to a complete stop before the crosswalk or at the limit line. If neither exists, stop before entering the intersection. After stopping, check traffic in all directions before proceeding.
Tips to remember:
The word "STOP" is clear and universally understood, requiring no additional explanation.
Temporary Traffic Control Signs
Shoulder Work Ahead
Background color: orange
Location: approaching sections with shoulder work
The 'Shoulder Work Ahead' sign alerts drivers to upcoming maintenance or utility work along the roadway shoulder. Although the work may take place on the shoulder, the main travel lanes remain unobstructed. This sign ensures drivers are prepared for any potential equipment or workers near the edge of the roadway.
Tips to remember:
Stay alert and reduce speed near shoulder work zones. Watch for workers and equipment along the road’s edge, and avoid unnecessary lane changes near the area.
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Warning Signs
Signal/Stop Ahead Arrow
Background color: yellow
Location: intersections or traffic signal approaches
The Signal/Stop Ahead Arrow sign warns drivers about an upcoming signal or stop, especially when traditional warning signs have proven insufficient. It is placed on the left side of the road to ensure visibility and improve driver response.
Tips to remember:
This sign includes both a direction and a warning. Follow the arrow and prepare to stop or slow down as needed, especially when traffic lights or stop signs are ahead.
Temporary Traffic Control Signs
Slow Moving Vehicle
Background color: orange
Location: on equipment or vehicles traveling slowly on the roadway
The 'Slow Moving Vehicle' sign warns drivers of equipment or vehicles traveling significantly below the speed of normal traffic. This sign is used to alert motorists and prevent accidents by ensuring they are prepared to adjust their speed.
Tips to remember:
If you see this sign, reduce your speed and be prepared to overtake the slow-moving vehicle only when it is safe to do so. Stay alert and follow any additional signals or instructions.
Regulatory Signs
Slow Vehicles Must Turn Out
Background color: white
Location: highways with turn-out areas
The 'Slow Vehicles Must Turn Out' sign informs drivers of slower-moving vehicles that they are required to use the designated turn-out area to allow faster-moving vehicles to pass. This sign is typically placed near the entry of the turn-out area to ensure smooth traffic flow on narrow two-lane highways.
Tips to remember:
If you are driving slowly and see this sign, use the turn-out area to let faster vehicles pass. Staying in the lane may cause congestion and create unsafe conditions for other drivers.
Regulatory Signs
Slower Traffic Keep Right
Background color: white
Location: multi-lane roads, beginning of passing lanes
The Slower Traffic Keep Right sign directs slower-moving vehicles to stay in the right lane to avoid obstructing the flow of faster traffic. It is installed on multi-lane roads to reduce unnecessary lane changes and at locations with designated passing lanes.
Tips to remember:
If you are driving slower than the traffic flow, move to the right lane. This sign ensures smoother traffic flow and prevents congestion.
Regulatory Signs
Speed Limit 50 miles per hour
Background color: white
Location: highways, urban and rural roads
The Speed Limit sign indicates the maximum allowable speed on a given road section. The posted speed may vary based on the road type and specific conditions.
Tips to remember:
Think of the speed limit as a cap—no matter the road conditions, driving above the posted limit is considered a violation.
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Warning Signs
Stop Ahead
Background color: yellow
Location: approaches to primary regulatory signs
The Stop Ahead sign warns drivers of an upcoming STOP sign when the sign itself is not visible from a sufficient distance to allow the vehicle to stop safely. This sign are required at railroad crossings and intersections where visibility conditions prevent early detection of the main regulatory sign.
Tips to remember:
This sign reminds you to slow down and prepare to stop or yield. Watch for the main sign ahead and comply with its instructions in time.
Warning signs
THRU TRAFFIC MERGE LEFT
Background color: yellow
Location: on highways and expressways before a lane merges or drops
The THRU TRAFFIC MERGE LEFT sign informs drivers that the right lane will end, and through traffic must merge into the adjacent lane. This sign helps reduce confusion by notifying drivers early of the need to merge. It is frequently used on expressways, highways, or at exits without acceleration lanes.
Tips to remember:
The bold, all-caps text emphasizes merging, and the directional indication helps you prepare to shift lanes smoothly. If you see this sign, be ready to merge early and watch for vehicles in the adjacent lane.
Regulatory Signs
TO ONCOMING TRAFFIC
Background color: white
Location: mounted below YIELD signs at one-lane bridges or similar situations
The 'TO ONCOMING TRAFFIC' sign is placed below a YIELD sign in situations where drivers proceeding straight must yield to oncoming traffic, such as at one-lane bridges. This ensures that drivers give the right of way to vehicles approaching from the opposite direction.
Tips to remember:
If you see this sign below a YIELD sign, remember that oncoming traffic has the right of way. Slow down and prepare to stop if necessary to let oncoming vehicles pass.
Guide Signs
Telephone
Background color: blue
Location: in remote areas or public recreation zones
The 'Telephone' sign indicates the availability of a public telephone at locations where it may not be expected. It helps travelers in emergencies to find access to communication, especially in remote or recreational areas.
Tips to remember:
Associate this sign with emergency communication. If traveling in remote areas, remember that these signs indicate phones that are available 24/7 for public use.
Guide Signs
Trolley
Background color: green
Location: near trolley stations or boarding points
The 'Trolley' sign directs road users to the nearest trolley station or boarding location. This sign can include the transit system's name and directional arrows to provide precise guidance.
Tips to remember:
Follow these signs to access trolley stations easily. Look for accompanying arrows for directions to the correct entry point.
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