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 areas are based on how far you can see ahead. Where it is permitted to pass, you may do so only if it is safe.

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

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

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

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. The sign may be shown with or without words.

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

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.

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

Winding road ahead.

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

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

Chevron signs or one-direction large arrows may be seen on the outside of a curve. Expect a sharp change of direction of travel. Slow down.

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

Double Arrow. Traffic is permitted to 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 certain actions.

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

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