Chapter 5: Signs, Signals, and Road Markings

Traffic controls like signs, signals, and pavement markings form the language of the road, providing essential information, commands, and warnings to drivers. Understanding this language is fundamental to safety, as it ensures predictable traffic flow and alerts drivers to potential hazards and regulations. A thorough knowledge of these controls is a major component of the written driver’s exam and is crucial for navigating roadways safely and avoiding violations.

Sign Colors and Shapes

The color and shape of a traffic sign provide instant information about its meaning, often before the driver is close enough to read the text. Recognizing these visual cues is a critical driving skill.

Sign Shapes

• Octagon (8 sides) — Exclusively used for STOP signs. This unique shape means a driver must come to a full and complete stop.
• Triangle (inverted) — Exclusively used for YIELD signs. This means a driver must slow down or stop to give the right-of-way to traffic on the intersecting roadway.
• Circle — Exclusively used for advance warning of a railroad crossing. It is typically yellow with a black “R X R” symbol.
• Pentagon (5 sides) — Indicates a school zone or school crossing ahead. Drivers should be alert for children.
• Pennant (sideways triangle) — Placed on the left side of the road to indicate a NO PASSING ZONE.
• Diamond — Used for warning signs. These signs alert drivers to potential hazards or changes in road conditions ahead, such as a curve, slippery surface, or merging traffic.
• Rectangle (vertical) — Generally used for regulatory signs, such as Speed Limit signs.
• Rectangle (horizontal) — Generally used for guide signs, providing directions, route markers, or information about services.

Sign Colors