Traffic Signs Guide
Traffic signs communicate critical information through standardized colors, shapes, and symbols. Understanding what each sign means—and what action you must take—is essential for safe and legal driving. This guide explains U.S. traffic signs based on the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD).
Sign Shapes & Meanings
In the U.S., the shape of a sign tells you its general meaning even before you read the words or symbols.
Octagon
Triangle (Point Down)
Pennant (Triangle Point Right)
Diamond
Rectangle (Vertical)
Rectangle (Horizontal)
Pentagon
Circle with Slash
Regulatory Signs
Red & White — Signs that tell you what you must or must not do
Common Examples:
- •STOP signs
- •YIELD signs
- •Speed limit signs
- •NO TURN ON RED
- •ONE WAY
- •DO NOT ENTER
- •NO PARKING
- •NO U-TURN
Related Guides:
Warning Signs
Yellow & Black — Signs that alert you to potential hazards ahead
Common Examples:
- •Curve ahead
- •Steep hill
- •Merge
- •Pedestrian crossing
- •School zone
- •Railroad crossing
- •Slippery when wet
- •Animal crossing
Related Guides:
Guide Signs
Green, Blue & Brown — Signs that provide directional and route information
Common Examples:
- •Highway exit signs
- •Distance markers
- •Route shields
- •Service signs (gas, food, lodging)
- •Recreation area signs
- •Street name signs
Related Guides:
More detailed guides coming soon
Construction & Work Zone Signs
Orange & Black — Temporary signs for construction and maintenance areas
Common Examples:
- •Road work ahead
- •Lane closed
- •Detour
- •Flagger ahead
- •Reduced speed zone
- •Shoulder work
Related Guides:
More detailed guides coming soon
Detailed Sign Guides
We're building comprehensive guides for specific traffic signs. Currently available:
Sign Color Meanings
Red
Stop, yield, prohibition, or do not enter
Yellow
Warning, caution, or advisory speed
White
Regulatory information (speed limits, parking)
Orange
Construction and work zones
Green
Directional guidance, distances
Blue
Motorist services (gas, food, lodging)
Brown
Recreation and cultural areas
Yellow-Green
School zones and pedestrian crossings
Related Resources
About the MUTCD
The Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) is the federal standard for all traffic signs, signals, and pavement markings in the United States. It defines the colors, shapes, symbols, and placement of traffic control devices to ensure consistency nationwide.
States may adopt the MUTCD with modifications, but the basic sign meanings remain consistent across the U.S. For state-specific variations, see our state law pages.