Traffic Signs

The color and shape of a traffic sign communicates important information about the sign's message. In poor visibility conditions, such as heavy fog, you may be able to make out only the shape of a sign. As you approach a sign and while still distant, you may see the color long before you can read the message or see the symbol, giving you some advance information.

Sign Colors

Sign colors help you know what the intention of the sign is.

Red used with white conveys stop, yield, do not, and no. Stop signs, yield signs, do not enter or wrong way signs, the circle and slash in a no turn sign, and the restrictions in a parking sign are examples.

Black used with white conveys regulatory information. Speed limit, do not pass, no turns are examples where the operation is regulated by law and the black and white sign would be found.

Yellow used with black conveys a warning. Curve ahead, stop ahead, overhead clearances, and slippery when wet are all examples. A specialized class of warning signs uses a strong yellow/green color with black to advise of school zone, pedestrian and/or bicyclist activities.

Green and white, blue and white, and brown and white signs are used to provide helpful information. The green sign is used to provide destination types of information, while the blue sign is used to inform about motorists services. The brown sign is used to advise of historical or cultural interests that might exist in the area.

Orange and black and pink and black signs are used to advise and warn in construction (orange) and incident (pink) areas. They are used with black and white signs that convey regulations that might exist only because of the construction effort or the incident.

Sign Shapes

Octagon (Stop): This eight-sided shape always means stop. You must come to a complete stop at the sign, stop line, pedestrian crosswalk or curb. Wait for any vehicle or pedestrian to clear the way. At some intersections you'll find a sign beneath the stop sign that reads "All Way" or "4 Way." At these intersections all vehicles on all roads leading into the intersection must stop. If you get to the intersection at the same time as other vehicles, the driver on the left must yield to the driver on the right.

Triangle (Yield): You must slow down as you come to the intersection. Be prepared to stop. Let any vehicles, pedestrians or bicyclists safely pass before you proceed.

Rectangle (Regulatory or Guide): Vertical signs generally give instructions or tell you the law. Horizontal signs may give directions or information.

Diamond (Warning): These signs warn you of special conditions or hazards ahead. Slow down and drive with caution. Be ready to stop.

Pentagon (School Zone/School Crossing): This five-sided shape marks school zones and warns you about school crossings. Two signs may be used together to show the actual location of the crosswalk.