U.S. Road Signs – Common Signs

Do not pass. You must not pass any vehicles going in the same direction as you are while you are in this area. Passing signs tell you where it is safe to pass another vehicle and where you cannot. Passing zones are based on how far you can see ahead. Where it is permitted to pass, you may do so only if it is safe.

Sharp Turn. The road ahead makes a sharp turn in the direction of the arrow (right). Slow down, keep right, and do not pass.

This is a regulatory speed limit sign. It shows the maximum speed you are allowed to travel.

This sign tells you that there is a stop sign ahead. Slow down and be ready to stop.

You are approaching a point where roadways come together, and merging is required. The merge sign is typically installed on the side of the major roadway where merging traffic can be expected. Still, you may also see it on an entering road.

The Two-Way Left Turn Only sign tells you that the center lane is exclusively for left-turning vehicles in either direction. You cannot use the lane for passing, overtaking, or through travel.

The roadway is slippery when wet. Remember, the first half-hour of rain is the most hazardous. Slick surfaces can exaggerate regular movements. A skid can occur if brakes are applied too hard, or the wheel is turned too sharp. When pavement is wet, reduce your speed.

Double Arrow. Traffic can pass on either side of an island, obstruction, or gore in the roadway. Traffic separated by this sign may either rejoin or change directions.

No right turn. You cannot make a right turn at this intersection.

Remember, regulatory signs with a red circle with a red slash over a symbol prohibit specific actions.

A yield sign is a downward-pointing triangle. It is red and white with red letters. You will see no other signs of this shape on the highway. Slow down as you approach a yield sign. Look to the left and the right. Yield to pedestrians and vehicles. Once you have yielded to vehicles or pedestrians, you may proceed only when you can do so safely.

This is a regulatory No U-turn sign. It means that you are not allowed to make a U-turn. Remember, if a sign has a red circle with a red line through it, it always indicates no. The picture inside the circle shows what is not allowed. You may see the sign with or without words.

Steep hill ahead. Slow down and be ready to shift to lower gear to control speed and protect brakes from damage.

Winding road ahead.

The road ahead winds back and forth. Slow to a safe or indicated speed.

Left Turn Only. This sign tells you you can only turn left from this lane.

Lane-Use Control signs are used where turning movements are required or turning movements are permitted from lanes as shown.

You may see chevron signs or large one-direction arrows on the outside of a curve. Expect a sharp change of direction of travel. Slow down.