Road signs in the United States

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Map showing state adoption of the 2009 edition of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices:
  Adopted national MUTCD
  Adopted national MUTCD with state supplement
  Adopted state-specific MUTCD

In the United States, road signs are, for the most part, standardized by federal regulations, most notably in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) and its companion volume the Standard Highway Signs (SHS).

There are no plans for adopting the Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals standards. The 1971 MUTCD adopted several Vienna Convention-inspired symbol signs with the intent to transition to symbols in lieu of words as "rapidly as possible",[1][2][3] but U.S. drivers were baffled by symbol signs.[4][5] The language about "rapidly" transitioning to symbols was removed in the 1978 MUTCD.[6] The result was to effectively freeze several measures intended to be temporary until U.S. drivers could learn the relevant symbols' meanings. For example, the "Do Not Enter" word message is not found on the Vienna Convention's equivalent sign. Two symbol signs were eliminated, respectively, in the 2000 and 2003 MUTCDs (thereby requiring use of the previous word message signs): Pavement Ends and Narrow Bridge.[7]

Eighteen states use the manual without alterations; 22 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico have adopted it in conjunction with a supplemental volume; and ten states have a state version in substantial conformance to the MUTCD.[8] There are localized versions used in large cities such as New York City which use a naming system compatible with the MUTCD and/or state supplement. The MUTCD and SHS establish seven categories of signs for road and highway use, as follows[9] (all signs from national MUTCD, unless noted):

Regulatory signs[edit]

Regulatory signs give instructions to motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists. Signs including Stop, Yield, No Turns, No Trucks, No Parking, No Stopping, Minimum Speed, Right Turn Only, Do Not Enter, Weight Limit, and Speed Limit are considered regulatory signs. Some have special shapes, such as the octagon for the Stop sign and the crossbuck for railroad crossings. Some signs can be localized, such as No Parking, and some are found only in state and local jurisdictions, as they are based on state or local laws, such as New York City's "Don't Block the Box" signs. These signs are in the R series of signs in the MUTCD and typically in the R series in most state supplements or state MUTCDs.

R1 series: Stop and yield[edit]

The MUTCD's R1 series is for Stop and Yield. As not all situations are covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD. The 4-WAY and 3-WAY plaques (R1-3) were deprecated in the 2009 Edition of the MUTCD in favor of the ALL WAY plaque (R1-3P).

  • Stop and Yield
  • R1-1: Stop

    R1-1: Stop

  • R1-2: Yield

    R1-2: Yield

  • R1-2aP: To oncoming traffic (plaque)

    R1-2aP: To oncoming traffic (plaque)

  • R1-3P: All way (plaque)

    R1-3P: All way (plaque)

  • R1-5: Yield here to pedestrians

    R1-5: Yield here to pedestrians

  • R1-5a: Yield here to pedestrians

    R1-5a: Yield here to pedestrians

  • R1-5b: Stop here for pedestrians

    R1-5b: Stop here for pedestrians

  • R1-5c: Stop here for pedestrians

    R1-5c: Stop here for pedestrians

  • R1-6: In-street pedestrian crossing[a]

    R1-6: In-street pedestrian crossing[a]

  • R1-6a: In-street pedestrian crossing[a]

    R1-6a: In-street pedestrian crossing[a]

  • R1-6b: In-street school crossing

    R1-6b: In-street school crossing

  • R1-6c: In-street school crossing

    R1-6c: In-street school crossing

  • R1-7:Wait on stop

    R1-7:Wait on stop

  • R1-8: Go on slow

    R1-8: Go on slow

  • R1-9: Overhead ped crossing[a]

    R1-9: Overhead ped crossing[a]

  • R1-9a: Overhead ped crossing[a]

    R1-9a: Overhead ped crossing[a]

  • R1-10P: Except right turn

    R1-10P: Except right turn

R2 series: Speed limit[edit]

The MUTCD's R2 series is for speed limit signs. Some state supplements and state MUTCDs place various speed limit signs in other series. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD. Speed limits in the United States are always in miles per hour. Metric speed limit signs in kilometers per hour are authorized but extremely rare, usually seen near the borders with Canada and Mexico, both of which use the metric system.[10] Many states, however, disallow the use of metric signs on state-maintained roads due to MUTCD restrictions,[11] increasing the rarity of such signs.

  • Speed Limit Signs
  • R2-1: Speed limit

    R2-1: Speed limit

  • R2-1: Speed limit (metric)

    R2-1: Speed limit (metric)

  • R2-2P: Truck Speed limit

    R2-2P: Truck Speed limit

  • R2-2P: Truck speed limit (metric)

    R2-2P: Truck speed limit (metric)

  • R2-3P: Night speed limit

    R2-3P: Night speed limit

  • R2-3P: Night speed limit (metric)

    R2-3P: Night speed limit (metric)

  • R2-4P: Minimum speed limit

    R2-4P: Minimum speed limit

  • R2-4P: Minimum speed limit (metric)

    R2-4P: Minimum speed limit (metric)

  • R2-4a: Combined speed limit

    R2-4a: Combined speed limit

  • R2-5P: Unless otherwise posted

    R2-5P: Unless otherwise posted

  • $XX fine

    $XX fine

  • Begin higher/double fines

    Begin higher/double fines

  • End double/higher fines

    End double/higher fines

R3 series: Lane usage and turns[edit]

The MUTCD's R3 series of signs is for lane usage and turn signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • Lane Usage and Turns Signs
  • No right turn

    No right turn

  • No left turn

    No left turn

  • No turns

    No turns

  • No U-turn

    No U-turn

  • Left turn only

    Left turn only

  • Right turn only

    Right turn only

  • Straight ahead only

    Straight ahead only

  • Left lane

    Left lane

  • Center lane

    Center lane

  • Right lane

    Right lane

  • Bus lane

    Bus lane

  • Option sign for left turn or straight

    Option sign for left turn or straight

  • Option sign for right turn or straight

    Option sign for right turn or straight

  • Left lane MUST turn left

    Left lane MUST turn left

  • Right lane MUST turn right

    Right lane MUST turn right

  • Advanced intersection control

    Advanced intersection control

  • Turn only lanes

    Turn only lanes

  • Advanced intersection control

    Advanced intersection control

  • Concurrent (center) left turn lane (overhead)

    Concurrent (center) left turn lane (overhead)

  • Concurrent (center) Left Turn Lane (ground)

    Concurrent (center) Left Turn Lane (ground)

  • Reversible lane control

    Reversible lane control

  • Center lane control (time)

    Center lane control (time)

  • MUTCD R3-9g.svg
  • MUTCD R3-9h.svg
  • MUTCD R3-9i.svg
  • HOV 2+ only 2 or more persons per vehicle

    HOV 2+ only 2 or more persons per vehicle

  • MUTCD R3-10a.svg
  • HOV 2+ only (time)

    HOV 2+ only (time)

  • HOV 2+ Time (LEFT LANE)

    HOV 2+ Time (LEFT LANE)

  • MUTCD R3-11b.svg
  • 24HR HOV 2+

    24HR HOV 2+

  • MUTCD R3-12.svg
  • MUTCD R3-12a.svg
  • HOV lane ends

    HOV lane ends

  • MUTCD R3-13.svg
  • MUTCD R3-13a.svg
  • HOV (overhead)

    HOV (overhead)

  • Overhead

    Overhead

  • Overhead

    Overhead

  • Overhead

    Overhead

  • MUTCD R3-15a.svg
  • Bike lane

    Bike lane

  • No left or U-turn

    No left or U-turn

  • No thru movement

    No thru movement

  • No left turn across tracks

    No left turn across tracks

R4 series: Regulation of movement[edit]

The MUTCD's R4 series of signs is for the regulation of movement signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • Regulation of Movement Signs
  • Do not pass

    Do not pass

  • Pass with care

    Pass with care

  • Left turn signal

    Left turn signal

  • Slower traffic keep right

    Slower traffic keep right

  • Begin right turn lane yield to bikes

    Begin right turn lane yield to bikes

  • Trucks use right Lane

    Trucks use right Lane

  • Truck lane 500 Feet

    Truck lane 500 Feet

  • Keep right

    Keep right

  • Keep right

    Keep right

  • Keep right

    Keep right

  • Keep right (median island less than 4 feet wide)

    Keep right (median island less than 4 feet wide)

  • Keep left

    Keep left

  • Keep left

    Keep left

  • Keep left

    Keep left

  • Keep left (median island less than 4 feet wide)

    Keep left (median island less than 4 feet wide)

  • Stay in lane

    Stay in lane

  • Runaway vehicles only

    Runaway vehicles only

  • Cyclists may use full lane

    Cyclists may use full lane

  • Slow vehicles with 5 or more following vehicles must use turn-out

    Slow vehicles with 5 or more following vehicles must use turn-out

  • Slow vehicles must use turn-out ahead

    Slow vehicles must use turn-out ahead

  • Slow vehicles must turn out

    Slow vehicles must turn out

  • Keep right except to pass

    Keep right except to pass

  • Do not drive on shoulder

    Do not drive on shoulder

  • Do not pass on shoulder

    Do not pass on shoulder

R5 series: Exclusionary[edit]

The MUTCD's R5 series of signs is for exclusionary signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD. The most common of these signs is the do not enter sign.

  • Exclusionary Signs
  • Do not enter

    Do not enter

  • Wrong way

    Wrong way

  • Bicycles wrong way

    Bicycles wrong way

  • No trucks

    No trucks

  • No motorized vehicles

    No motorized vehicles

  • No commercial vehicles

    No commercial vehicles

  • No lugged vehicles

    No lugged vehicles

  • No bicycles

    No bicycles

  • No nonmotorized traffic

    No nonmotorized traffic

  • No motor driven cycles

    No motor driven cycles

  • No pedestrians bicycles motor driven cycles

    No pedestrians bicycles motor driven cycles

  • No pedestrians or bicycles

    No pedestrians or bicycles

  • No pedestrians

    No pedestrians

  • No unauthorized vehicles

    No unauthorized vehicles

R6 series: One way and divided highway[edit]

The MUTCD's R6 series of signs is for one way and divided highway signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD. The most common of these signs is the One Way sign.

  • One Way and Divided Highway
  • One way

    One way

  • One way, alternate

    One way, alternate

  • Divided highway crossing

    Divided highway crossing

  • Divided highway crossing, T-intersection

    Divided highway crossing, T-intersection

  • Chevron roundabout directional

    Chevron roundabout directional

R7 series: Parking[edit]

The MUTCD allows for three types of parking signs: permissive, No Parking, and No Standing. However, in most states, there is an additional more restrictive one, No Stopping. These signs are found in the R7 series of signs in the MUTCD. As all situations are not covered, several states and local governments have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD. Permissive parking signs allow for parking for either an unlimited or varied amount of time. They are often used in conjunction with parking meters and parking permits. They are specified by the MUTCD to be green on white. Local variations occur with additional information and slightly different designs. No Parking signs indicate that loading or unloading while temporarily stopped is permitted, but the driver must not leave the vicinity of the vehicle.[12] Some No Parking signs display time restrictions, while others are permanent restrictions. There are also temporary versions of the signs, often of similar design to the permanent ones. These signs are specified by the MUTCD to be red on white, although local variations occur. No Standing signs indicate that stopping temporarily to load or unload passengers is allowed, but vehicles cannot be stopped at the location for longer periods of time, even if the driver remains with the vehicle.[12] As with no parking signs, some restrictions displayed on the signs are permanent and some are time based.

  • Parking
  • No parking

    No parking

  • No parking from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm

    No parking from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm

  • No parking from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm (alternative)

    No parking from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm (alternative)

  • No Parking; Except Sundays

    No Parking; Except Sundays

  • No standing any time

    No standing any time

  • one hour parking time

    one hour parking time

  • Two hours parking time

    Two hours parking time

  • No parking; Loading zone

    No parking; Loading zone

  • Parking fee station

    Parking fee station

  • Reserved parking (wheelchair)

    Reserved parking (wheelchair)

  • Van accessible

    Van accessible

  • No parking bus stop

    No parking bus stop

  • Parking pay parking

    Parking pay parking

  • (Combined) no Parking one hour parking time

    (Combined) no Parking one hour parking time

  • Tow Away Zone

    Tow Away Zone

R8 series: Parking and emergency restrictions[edit]

The MUTCD's R8 series of signs is for parking restriction and emergency restriction signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • Parking and Emergency Restrictions
  • No parking on pavement

    No parking on pavement

  • No parking

    No parking

  • Exception of Sundays and holidays

    Exception of Sundays and holidays

  • On tracks plaque

    On tracks plaque

  • Except on shoulder plaque

    Except on shoulder plaque

  • Loading zone

    Loading zone

  • No stopping on pavement

    No stopping on pavement

  • Stop here when flashing

    Stop here when flashing

R9 series: Bicycles and pedestrians[edit]

The MUTCD's R9 series of signs is for bicycle and pedestrian signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • Bicycle and Pedestrian Signs
  • Walk on left facing traffic

    Walk on left facing traffic

  • Cross only at cross walks

    Cross only at cross walks

  • No pedestrians

    No pedestrians

  • No rollerblading

    No rollerblading

  • No hitch hiking

    No hitch hiking

  • Bicycles left pedestrians right

    Bicycles left pedestrians right

  • Sidewalk Closed Use Other Side

    Sidewalk Closed Use Other Side

  • No horseback riding

    No horseback riding

R10 series: Traffic signal[edit]

The MUTCD's R10 series of signs is for traffic signal related signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • Traffic Signal Signs
  • Crosswalk signal instructions

    Crosswalk signal instructions

  • Stop here on red

    Stop here on red

  • Turning vehicles yield to pedestrians

    Turning vehicles yield to pedestrians

  • Left turn yield on green

    Left turn yield on green

  • Bicycles to request green wait on line

    Bicycles to request green wait on line

  • Left turn yield on flashing yellow arrow, version 1

    Left turn yield on flashing yellow arrow, version 1

  • Left turn yield on flashing arrow, version 2

    Left turn yield on flashing arrow, version 2

R11 series: Road closed[edit]

The MUTCD's R11 series of signs is for road closure-related signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • Road Closed Signs
  • Road closed

    Road closed

  • Road closed ahead

    Road closed ahead

  • Bridge out ahead

    Bridge out ahead

R12 series: Weight limits[edit]

The MUTCD's R12 series of signs is for weight limit-related signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • Weight Limits Signs
  • Weight limit

    Weight limit

  • Axle weight limit

    Axle weight limit

  • Truck weight limit

    Truck weight limit

  • Weight limit with per axle and gross

    Weight limit with per axle and gross

  • Weight limit with truck symbols

    Weight limit with truck symbols

R13 series: Weigh stations[edit]

The MUTCD's R13 series of signs is for weigh station related signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • Weigh station sign

    Weigh station sign

  • Weigh station next right sign

    Weigh station next right sign

  • Weigh station sign with right exit arrow

    Weigh station sign with right exit arrow

R14 series: Truck routes[edit]

The MUTCD's R14 series of signs is for truck route-related signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • Truck route sign

    Truck route sign

  • Hazardous material route

    Hazardous material route

  • Hazardous material prohibited

    Hazardous material prohibited

  • National Network prohibited

    National Network prohibited

R15 series: Rail and light rail[edit]

The MUTCD's R15 series of signs is for rail- and light rail-related signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • Rail and Light Rail Signs
  • Railroad crossing (crossbuck)

    Railroad crossing (crossbuck)

  • Three tracks

    Three tracks

  • This railroad stop is exempt from the horn blowing

    This railroad stop is exempt from the horn blowing

  • Light rail only in right lane

    Light rail only in right lane

  • Light rail only in left lane

    Light rail only in left lane

  • Light rail only in center lane

    Light rail only in center lane

  • Do not pass stopped trains

    Do not pass stopped trains

  • Do not drive on tracks

    Do not drive on tracks

  • Divided highway transit rail crossing

    Divided highway transit rail crossing

  • Look both ways at track

    Look both ways at track

R16 series: Seat belts and headlight use[edit]

The MUTCD's R16 series of signs is for seat belt and headlight use-related signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • Seat Belts and Headlight Use Signs
  • Wear seat belt

    Wear seat belt

  • Lights on when raining

    Lights on when raining

  • Check headlights

    Check headlights

  • Turn on headlights

    Turn on headlights

  • Fender bender

    Fender bender

Warning signs[edit]

Warning signs are found in the W series of the national MUTCD. They highlight existing conditions, such as a curve, school, dead end street, or traffic signal. They can also warn of possible danger such as bumps, bicycles, low flying aircraft, or emergency vehicles. They are either yellow or fluorescent yellow in color and, with a few exceptions, are usually diamond-shaped and sometimes have square or rectangular smaller signs or plaques associated with them. Most W series signs can also be found with orange backgrounds for temporary use in situations such as construction zones. Some of the temporary-use signs are for use only in temporary situations.

W1 series: Horizontal alignment[edit]

The MUTCD's W1 series of signs is for warning signs relating to horizontal alignment As not all situations are covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • Curves and Turns
  • Turn

    Turn

  • Curve

    Curve

  • Curve with minor road

    Curve with minor road

  • Reverse turn

    Reverse turn

  • Reverse curve

    Reverse curve

  • Arrow

    Arrow

  • Double arrow

    Double arrow

  • Chevron

    Chevron

  • Winding road

    Winding road

  • Turn around road

    Turn around road

  • Truck rollover warning

    Truck rollover warning

  • 270-degree loop

    270-degree loop

W2 series: Junctions[edit]

The MUTCD's W2 series of signs is for warning signs relating to junctions. As not all situations are covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • Junctions
  • Crossroad junction

    Crossroad junction

  • Side road junction

    Side road junction

  • Slanted side road junction

    Slanted side road junction

  • T junction

    T junction

  • Y junction

    Y junction

  • Roundabout

    Roundabout

  • Offset side roads

    Offset side roads

  • Double side roads

    Double side roads

W3 series: Advance traffic control[edit]

The MUTCD's W3 series of signs is for warning signs relating to advance traffic controls. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD. The MUTCD provides options for graphic and text signs.

  • Advance Traffic Control
  • Stop sign ahead

    Stop sign ahead

  • Yield sign ahead

    Yield sign ahead

  • Speed limit ahead

    Speed limit ahead

  • Traffic lights Ahead

    Traffic lights Ahead

  • Be prepared to stop

    Be prepared to stop

  • Speed zone ahead

    Speed zone ahead

  • Draw bridge ahead

    Draw bridge ahead

  • Ramp meter ahead

    Ramp meter ahead

  • Ramp metered when flashing

    Ramp metered when flashing

W4 series: Lanes and merges[edit]

The MUTCD's W4 series of signs is for warning signs relating to lane merges and added lanes, as well as lane endings. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • Lanes and Merges
  • Merge ahead

    Merge ahead

  • Right lane ends

    Right lane ends

  • Lane drop ahead

    Lane drop ahead

  • Added left lane

    Added left lane

  • Added right lane

    Added right lane

  • Cross traffic does not stop

    Cross traffic does not stop

  • Merge on slip lane

    Merge on slip lane

  • Added left lane on slip lane

    Added left lane on slip lane

  • Added right lane on slip lane

    Added right lane on slip lane

W5 series: Road width restrictions[edit]

The MUTCD's W5 series of signs is for warning signs relating to road width restrictions. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD. The MUTCD provides options for graphic and text signs.

  • Road Width Restrictions
  • Road Narrows

    Road Narrows

  • Narrow Bridge

    Narrow Bridge

  • One lane bridge

    One lane bridge

  • Path Narrows

    Path Narrows

  • Bikeway narrows

    Bikeway narrows

W6 series: Divided highway[edit]

The MUTCD's W6 series of signs is for warning signs relating to divided highways. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD. The MUTCD provides options for graphic and text signs.

  • Divided Highways
  • Divided Highway

    Divided Highway

  • Divided highway ends

    Divided highway ends

  • Two-way traffic

    Two-way traffic

W7 series: Hills[edit]

The MUTCD's W7 series of signs is for warning signs relating to hills. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • Hills
  • Steep grade/hill

    Steep grade/hill

  • Hill

    Hill

  • Steep grade/hill percentage

    Steep grade/hill percentage

  • Use low gear

    Use low gear

  • Trucks use lower gear

    Trucks use lower gear

  • X% grade ahead

    X% grade ahead

  • Next (distance) miles ahead

    Next (distance) miles ahead

  • X% grade (distance) miles ahead

    X% grade (distance) miles ahead

  • Runaway truck ramp

    Runaway truck ramp

  • Truck escape ramp

    Truck escape ramp

  • sand

    sand

  • gravel

    gravel

  • paved

    paved

  • Hill (bike)

    Hill (bike)

  • Hill blocks view

    Hill blocks view

W8 series: Pavement and roadway conditions[edit]

The MUTCD's W8 series of signs is for warning signs relating to pavement and roadway conditions. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • Pavement and Roadway Conditions
  • Bump

    Bump

  • Dip

    Dip

  • Pavement ends

    Pavement ends

  • Soft shoulder

    Soft shoulder

  • Slippery ahead

    Slippery ahead

  • Loose gravel

    Loose gravel

  • Rough road

    Rough road

  • Bicycle slippery ahead

    Bicycle slippery ahead

  • Uneven lanes

    Uneven lanes

  • No center line

    No center line

  • Bridge ices before road

    Bridge ices before road

  • Fallen rocks

    Fallen rocks

  • Metal bridge deck

    Metal bridge deck

  • Road may flood

    Road may flood

  • Gusty Winds Area

    Gusty Winds Area

  • Fog area

    Fog area

  • No shoulder ahead

    No shoulder ahead

  • Shoulder ends

    Shoulder ends

W9 series: Lane transitions[edit]

The MUTCD's W9 series of signs is for warning signs relating to lane transitions. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • Lane Transitions
  • Lane ends

    Lane ends

  • Lane ends merge...

    Lane ends merge...

  • Center lane closed ahead

    Center lane closed ahead

W10 series: Crossings[edit]

The MUTCD's W10 series of signs is for warning signs relating to crossings. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • Grade crossings
  • Crossing ahead

    Crossing ahead

  • Crossing on junction ahead

    Crossing on junction ahead

  • Skewed crossing ahead

    Skewed crossing ahead

  • Low ground clearance

    Low ground clearance

  • Trains may exceed 80 mph

    Trains may exceed 80 mph

  • No train horn warning

    No train horn warning

W11 series: Advance warnings[edit]

The MUTCD's W11 series of signs is for warning signs relating to advance warnings. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD. The MUTCD allows use of a fluorescent yellow-green background color for signs relating to non-motorized vehicles crossing the road.[13]

  • Advanced warnings
  • Bicycle

    Bicycle

  • Pedestrians

    Pedestrians

  • Deer

    Deer

  • Cattle

    Cattle

  • Farm vehicles

    Farm vehicles

  • Snowmobile

    Snowmobile

  • Equestrian

    Equestrian

  • Emergency vehicle

    Emergency vehicle

  • Handicapped

    Handicapped

  • Truck

    Truck

  • Golf cart

    Golf cart

  • Horse-drawn vehicles

    Horse-drawn vehicles

  • Bicycle and pedestrians

    Bicycle and pedestrians

  • Bear

    Bear

  • Sheep

    Sheep

  • Ram

    Ram

  • Donkey

    Donkey

  • Elk

    Elk

  • Moose

    Moose

  • Wild horse

    Wild horse

W12 series: Obstacles[edit]

The MUTCD's W12 series of signs is for warning signs relating to obstacles. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD. Metric low bridge signs in meters are authorized but extremely rare, usually seen near the borders with Canada and Mexico, both of which use the metric system.[10] Many states, however, disallow the use of metric signs on state-maintained roads due to system restrictions, increasing the rarity of such signs.

  • Obstacles
  • Double arrow obstacle

    Double arrow obstacle

  • Low bridge obstacle

    Low bridge obstacle

  • Low bridge obstacle metric

    Low bridge obstacle metric

  • Sign displays height of bridge

    Sign displays height of bridge

W13 series: Advisory speeds[edit]

The MUTCD's W13 series of signs is for warning signs relating to advisory speeds. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD. Speed limits in the United States are always in miles per hour. Metric advisory speed signs in kilometers per hour are authorized but extremely rare, usually seen near the borders with Canada and Mexico, both of which use the metric system.[10] Many states, however, disallow the use of metric signs on state-maintained roads due to system restrictions, increasing the rarity of such signs.

  • Advisory Speeds
  • Speed advisory

    Speed advisory

  • Speed advisory metric

    Speed advisory metric

  • Exit speed advisory

    Exit speed advisory

  • Ramp speed advisory

    Ramp speed advisory

W14 series: Dead end streets and no passing zones[edit]

The MUTCD's W14 series of signs is for warning signs relating to dead-end streets and no-passing zones. As all situations are not covered, several states and local governments have additional signs for other types of situations not covered by the MUTCD.

  • Dead End and Limited Access Streets
  • No Outlet

    No Outlet

  • Dead End

    Dead End

  • No Passing Zone

    No Passing Zone

W15 series: Playgrounds[edit]

The MUTCD's W15 series of signs is for warning signs relating to playgrounds. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • Playgrounds
  • Playground[b]

    Playground[b]

W16 series: Supplemental plaques[edit]

The MUTCD's W16 series of signs is for supplemental plaques for warning signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • Supplemental Plaques
  • XX feet

    XX feet

  • XX feet

    XX feet

  • X miles

    X miles

  • X miles

    X miles

  • Next XX feet

    Next XX feet

  • Advance street name

    Advance street name

  • Advance street name (double arrow)

    Advance street name (double arrow)

  • Ahead

    Ahead

  • Photo enforced

    Photo enforced

  • HOV

    HOV

  • Roundabout junction plaque

    Roundabout junction plaque

  • When flashing

    When flashing

  • New

    New

  • Notice

    Notice

W17 series: Speed humps[edit]

The MUTCD's W17 series of signs is for warnings relating to speed humps. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • Speed Humps
  • Speed Hump

    Speed Hump

W18 series: No traffic signs[edit]

The MUTCD's W18 series of signs is for warnings relating to no further traffic signs. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • No Traffic Signs
  • No Traffic Signs

    No Traffic Signs

W19 series: Freeway or expressway end signs[edit]

The MUTCD's W19 series of signs is for warning signs relating to the end of a freeway or expressway. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • Freeway or expressway end signs
  • Freeway Ends

    Freeway Ends

  • Expressway Ends

    Expressway Ends

  • Freeway Ends

    Freeway Ends

  • Expressway Ends

    Expressway Ends

  • All traffic must exit

    All traffic must exit

W20 series: Work zones[edit]

The MUTCD's W20 series of signs is for warning signs relating to work zones. These signs are typically orange background ones used for temporary situations. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • Work Zone Signs
  • Road Work Next 5 Miles

    Road Work Next 5 Miles

  • End road work

    End road work

  • Work Zone Speed limit

    Work Zone Speed limit

  • Road work ahead

    Road work ahead

  • Road Closed Ahead

    Road Closed Ahead

  • Road is closed 1000 ft. ahead

    Road is closed 1000 ft. ahead

  • Detour

    Detour

  • End Detour

    End Detour

  • End(If a road work blocked road)

    End(If a road work blocked road)

  • Flagger

    Flagger

W21 series: Road work[edit]

The MUTCD's W21 series of signs is for warning signs relating to road work. They typically have orange backgrounds and are used for temporary situations. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD

  • Road Work Signs
  • One lane road ahead

    One lane road ahead

  • Be prepared to stop

    Be prepared to stop

  • Men working

    Men working

  • Fresh oil

    Fresh oil

  • Utility work ahead

    Utility work ahead

W22 series: Blasting zones[edit]

The MUTCD's W22 series of signs is for warning signs relating to blasting zones. They typically have orange backgrounds and are used for temporary situations. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • Blasting Zone Signs
  • Blasting zone ahead

    Blasting zone ahead

  • Turn off 2-way radios and cell phones

    Turn off 2-way radios and cell phones

  • End blasting zone

    End blasting zone

W23 series: Slow traffic[edit]

The MUTCD's W23 series of signs is for warning signs relating to slow traffic. They typically have orange backgrounds and are used for temporary situations. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • Slow Traffic Signs
  • Slow traffic ahead

    Slow traffic ahead

  • New traffic pattern ahead

    New traffic pattern ahead

W24 series: Lane shifts[edit]

The MUTCD's W24 series of signs is for warning signs relating to lane shifts, where traffic is diverted slightly toward the left or right of the roadway, but the route is otherwise unchanged. These signs typically have orange background and are used for temporary situations. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • Double Reverse Curve Signs
  • Double reverse curve

    Double reverse curve

  • Double reverse curve

    Double reverse curve

  • Double reverse curve

    Double reverse curve

  • All lanes

    All lanes

W25 series: Oncoming traffic has extended green[edit]

The MUTCD's W25 series of signs is for signs warning that oncoming traffic has an extended green signal at a traffic light. As all situations are not covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

  • Extended Green Signs
  • Extended green

    Extended green

  • Possible extended Green

    Possible extended Green

Guide signs[edit]

Guide signs include highway route markers (shields), which are reassurance markers, interchange signs, including advance guide and exit signs, and mile markers. Advance guide and exit signs usually feature control cities or other locations to help direct drivers toward their destinations. The position of the exit number plaque indicates right or left exit[15] (and should indicate center lane exit).

Interchange signs[edit]

  • Interchange Advance Guide Signs
  • Interchange Guide sign

    Interchange Guide sign

  • Interchange Guide sign

    Interchange Guide sign

  • Interchange Exit Direction Signs
  • Interchange exit direction

    Interchange exit direction

  • Exit number sign

    Exit number sign

  • Exit sign

    Exit sign

  • Exit number sign with speed advisory

    Exit number sign with speed advisory

  • Mileage signs for highway routes

    Mileage signs for highway routes

Toll signs[edit]

Chapter 2F of the MUTCD deals with signs relating to tolls.

  • Toll Road Signs
  • Toll road pass only

    Toll road pass only

  • Toll road pass or HOV

    Toll road pass or HOV

  • Toll costs at intersections or HOV

    Toll costs at intersections or HOV

  • MUTCD Conventional Toll Plaza advance sign

    MUTCD Conventional Toll Plaza advance sign

  • MUTCD Conventional Toll Plaza advance sign

    MUTCD Conventional Toll Plaza advance sign

  • Pay toll

    Pay toll

Motorist services[edit]

  • Telephone

    Telephone

  • Hospital

    Hospital

  • Camping

    Camping

  • Trailer camping

    Trailer camping

  • Litter container

    Litter container

  • Handicapped accessible

    Handicapped accessible

  • Gas

    Gas

  • Food

    Food

  • Lodging

    Lodging

  • General information

    General information

  • Diesel fuel

    Diesel fuel

  • Alternative fuel (CNG)

    Alternative fuel (CNG)

  • Electric vehicle charging

    Electric vehicle charging

  • Alternative fuel (E85)

    Alternative fuel (E85)

  • RV sanitary station

    RV sanitary station

  • Ambulance symbol

    Ambulance symbol

  • Police

    Police

  • Propane gas

    Propane gas

  • Truck parking

    Truck parking

  • Pharmacy

    Pharmacy

  • Telecommunication

    Telecommunication

  • Wireless internet

    Wireless internet

General information[edit]

  • Traffic Signal Speed

    Traffic Signal Speed

  • State Line

    State Line

  • River

    River

  • Airport

    Airport

  • Bus Station

    Bus Station

  • Train Station

    Train Station

  • Library

    Library

  • Recycling Collection Center

    Recycling Collection Center

  • Light Rail Station

    Light Rail Station

School zone signs[edit]

The S series of signs is specially designated by the MUTCD for use around schools. Some states have additional school warning-related signs in the S series, the W series of warning signs, and/or the R series of regulatory signs of the state supplement or state MUTCD. As of 2009 the MUTCD requires school warning signs to have fluorescent yellow-green backgrounds.[16]

  • Schools
  • School zone ahead (also used for pedestrian crosswalk near schools) since 1998

    School zone ahead (also used for pedestrian crosswalk near schools) since 1998

  • School bus stop ahead

    School bus stop ahead

  • School bus turn ahead

    School bus turn ahead

  • Time of Day

    Time of Day

  • When Children are present

    When Children are present

  • School plaque

    School plaque

  • When lights flashing

    When lights flashing

  • School speed limit ahead

    School speed limit ahead

  • School Speed zone ahead

    School Speed zone ahead

  • Day(s) of the week

    Day(s) of the week

  • All year school zone ahead

    All year school zone ahead

  • School speed limit when flashing

    School speed limit when flashing

  • End school zone (usually under an R2 speed limit sign)

    End school zone (usually under an R2 speed limit sign)

See also[edit]

Notes[edit]

  1. ^ a b c d The legend STATE LAW is optional. A fluorescent yellow-green color may be used instead of yellow for this sign.
  2. ^ A fluorescent yellow-green background color may be used for this sign.[14]

References[edit]

  1. ^ American Association of State Highway Officials; National Joint Committee on Traffic Control Devices (1971). "Section 2A-13, Symbols". Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration. p. 16. Retrieved July 21, 2020.
  2. ^ "Symbols to Replace Words on U.S. Traffic Signs". The New York Times. May 31, 1970. p. 58.
  3. ^ Lindsey, Robert (April 23, 1972). "Signs of Progress: Road Symbols Guiding Traffic". The New York Times. p. S22. Retrieved August 19, 2020.
  4. ^ Hazlett, Bill (March 23, 1972). "Some Confusing: Wordless Traffic Signs Popping Up". Los Angeles Times. p. E1. Available through ProQuest Historical Newspapers.
  5. ^ Conniff, James C.G. (March 30, 1975). "Danger: Signs ahead". The New York Times. p. 183. Retrieved August 19, 2020.
  6. ^ American Association of State Highway Officials; National Joint Committee on Traffic Control Devices (1978). "Section 2A-13, Symbols". Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration. p. 2A-6.
  7. ^ American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials; National Joint Committee on Traffic Control Devices (2003). "Introduction". Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration. Retrieved August 26, 2020.
  8. ^ "MUTCDs & Traffic Control Devices Information by State". Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. Federal Highway Administration. July 14, 2020. Retrieved January 11, 2021.
  9. ^ Staff. "The Shape—and Color—Give Us a Sign". Federal Highway Administration. Archived from the original on April 1, 2009. Retrieved April 5, 2009.
  10. ^ a b c Metric signs on roads in the U.S.
  11. ^ "23 CFR Part 655 National Standards for Traffic Control Devices; the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways; Revision; Final Rule" (PDF). Retrieved April 2, 2019.
  12. ^ a b Staff (October 2011). "Chapter 7: Parallel Parking". Driver's Manual and Study Guide. New York State Department of Motor Vehicles. Retrieved March 16, 2012.
  13. ^ "2009 Edition Part 2 Figure 2C-11. Non-Vehicular Warning Signs". Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. United States Department of Transportation. Retrieved June 6, 2012.
  14. ^ "2009 Edition Part 2 Figure 2C-11. Non-Vehicular Warning Signs". Manual On Uniform Traffic Control Devices. United States Department of Transportation. Retrieved June 6, 2012.
  15. ^ "MUTCD, Section 2E.28 - Interchange Exit Numbering" (PDF).
  16. ^ "2009 Edition Chapter 7B. School Signs". Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. The United States Department of Transportation. Retrieved June 6, 2012.


External links[edit]

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