Road Signs and Meanings

Regulatory signs tell drivers what they must do, or must not do, according to the law. They give information about rules for traffic direction, speed, lane use, stopping, yielding, turning, parking, and other special situations. Drivers must obey the instructions on regulatory signs. If they don’t, they are breaking the law, and could be fined and receive points on their driving record. Drivers who disobey the messages on regulatory signs also risk their safety and the safety of others.
Regulatory signs are typically white, red, or black with black, white or red letters or symbols. They are usually square or rectangular, but some have a special shape. Some regulatory signs have a red circle with a red slash over a symbol. These signs prohibit certain actions, and the symbol inside the circle tells drivers what is prohibited.

Warning signs alert road users to changes in roadway conditions or possible hazards ahead. These signs are posted before the condition, so drivers have time to slow down, see what is ahead and decide how they should respond. Warning signs are usually diamond-shaped, with black symbols or words on a yellow background.

Work zone signs are normally diamond-shaped, with black letters or symbols on an orange background.
These signs identify construction, maintenance, utility or emergency operations areas, and warn drivers that workers or equipment may be on or near the roadway. These warnings include workers ahead, reduced speed, suddenly changing road surfaces, lane closures, detours and slow moving construction equipment. In work zones, traffic may be controlled by a person with a flag or stop/slow paddles. Flaggers have the same authority as a regulatory sign, and drivers must obey their directions.

Most guide signs are horizontal rectangles, with white letters and numbers on a green background. Guide signs direct motorists to cities and towns by telling them where they are, what road they are on and how to get where they want to go. These signs give information about directions, distances, proper exits etc. On highways and expressways, one advance guide sign is usually followed by another advance sign, with the third sign posted at the exit.

Service signs are square or rectangular, with white letters or symbols on a blue background. These signs direct drivers towards service facilities such as hospitals, rest areas, gas stations, restaurants and motels.

Pavement markings are painted lines, arrows, words, and symbols on the road that provide important regulations, warnings, and guidance for drivers directly on the pavement. Road markings work alongside traffic signs and signals to keep roads safe and organized, but some markings (like yellow or white road lines) stand alone to set clear rules and permitted actions.
As you get ready for the DMV written test, keep these key points in mind to quickly recognize pavement markings and understand the meaning behind painted lines on the road:

Line Colors:

• Yellow lines separate traffic moving in opposite directions and also identify two-way left-turn lanes and reversible lanes.
• White lines separate lanes of traffic moving in the same direction and mark the right edge of the roadway.

Line Types:

• Solid lines discourage or prohibit crossing.
• Broken lines allow passing or lane changes when safe.
• Double lines indicate maximum or special restrictions.

Being familiar with pavement markings and their meanings ensures you can safely follow road rules across a variety of traffic situations. Take the time to study them to avoid confusing yellow and white lines, as well as understanding the difference between solid and broken lines. This knowledge will prepare you for any pavement marking questions on your DMV written test.