Road signs in the United States

11th edition of the MUTCD, published December 2023

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).

Adoption and compliance

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

The 11th edition of the MUTCD was released on December 19, 2023. The effective date, 30 days after publication, of the MUTCD was January 18, 2024. States have two years after the effective date to do one of the following options: adopt the revised MUTCD, adopt the revised MUTCD with a state supplement, or adopt a state-specific MUTCD.

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. The MUTCD and SHS establish seven categories of signs for road and highway use, as follows: (The list does not cover all situations; the signage is from the national MUTCD unless specified):

Regulatory signs

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, the triangle for the Yield 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

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).

• 
  R1-1
  Stop
• 
  R1-2
  Yield
• 
  R1-2aP
  To oncoming traffic (plaque)
• 
  R1-2bP
  To traffic in circle (plaque)
• 
  R1-2cP
  To all lanes (plaque)
• 
  R1-4
  All way (plaque)
• 
  R1-5L
  Yield here to pedestrians (left)
• 
  R1-5R
  Yield here to pedestrians (right)
• 
  R1-5aL
  Yield here to pedestrians (left) (2003-2023)
• 
  R1-5aR
  Yield here to pedestrians (right) (2003-2023)
• 
  R1-5aL
  Yield here to school crossing (left)
• 
  R1-5aR
  Yield here to school crossing (right)
• 
  R1-5bL
  Stop here for pedestrians (left)
• 
  R1-5bR
  Stop here for pedestrians (right)
• 
  R1-5cL
  Stop here for pedestrians (left) (2003-2023)
• 
  R1-5cR
  Stop here for pedestrians (right) (2003-2023)
• 
  R1-5cL
  Stop here for school crossing (left)
• 
  R1-5cR
  Stop here for school crossing (right)
• 
  R1-5dL
  Yield here to trail crossing (left)
• 
  R1-5dR
  Yield here to trail crossing (right)
• 
  R1-5eL
  Stop here for trail crossing (left)
• 
  R1-5eR
  Stop here for trail crossing (right)
• 
  R1-6
  In-street pedestrian crossing
• 
  R1-6a
  In-street pedestrian crossing
• 
  R1-6b
  In-street school crossing
• 
  R1-6b
  In-street school crossing (within crosswalk)
• 
  R1-6c
  In-street school crossing
• 
  R1-6c
  In-street school crossing (within crosswalk)
• 
  R1-6d
  In-street trail crossing
• 
  R1-6d
  In-street trail crossing
• 
  R1-7
  Wait on stop
• 
  R1-7a
  Wait on stop - Go on slow
• 
  R1-8
  Go on slow
• 
  R1-9
  Overhead pedestrian crossing
• 
  R1-9a
  Overhead pedestrian crossing
• 
  R1-9b
  Overhead school crossing
• 
  R1-9b
  Overhead school crossing
• 
  R1-10P
  Except right turn (plaque)

R2 series: Speed limit

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 used to be authorized but extremely rare, usually seen near the borders with Canada and Mexico, both of which use the metric system. They have been discontinued as of 2012. Many states, however, disallow the use of metric signs on state-maintained roads due to MUTCD restrictions, increasing the rarity of such signs.

• 
  R2-1
  Speed limit
• 
  R2-1
  Speed limit (metric)
• 
  R2-2P
  Truck speed limit (plaque)
• 
  R2-2P
  Truck speed limit (metric)
• 
  R2-3P
  Night speed limit (plaque)
• 
  R2-3P
  Night speed limit (metric)
• 
  R2-4P
  Minimum speed limit (plaque)
• 
  R2-4P
  Minimum speed limit (metric)
• 
  R2-4a
  Combined speed limit
• 
  R2-5P
  Unless otherwise posted (plaque)
• 
  R2-6bP
  $XX fine (plaque)
• 
  R2-10
  Begin higher/double fines
• 
  R2-11
  End double/higher fines

R3 series: Lane usage and turns

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.

• 
  R3-1
  No right turn
• 
  R3-1a
  No right turn across tracks
• 
  R3-2
  No left turn
• 
  R3-2a
  No left turn across tracks
• 
  R3-3
  No turns
• 
  R3-4
  No U-turn
• 
  R3-5L
  Left turn only
• 
  R3-5R
  Right turn only
• 
  R3-5a
  Straight through only
• 
  R3-5b
  Left lane (plaque)
• 
  R3-5e
  Center lane (plaque)
• 
  R3-5f
  Right lane (plaque)
• 
  R3-5g
  Bus lane (plaque)
• 
  R3-6L
  Optional movement lane control, straight through and left turn
• 
  R3-6R
  Optional movement lane control, straight through and right turn
• 
  R3-7L
  Left lane must turn left
• 
  R3-7R
  Right lane must turn right
• 
  R3-8
  Advance intersection lane control (two lanes)
• 
  R3-8a
  Advance intersection lane control (three lanes)
• 
  R3-8b
  Advance intersection lane control (three lanes)
• 
  R3-9a
  Two-way left turn only (overhead)
• 
  R3-9b
  Two-way left turn only (post-mounted)
• 
  R3-9e
  Reversible lane control (overhead)
• 
  R3-9f
  Reversible lane control (post-mounted)
• 
  R3-9g
  Advance reversible lane control transition
• 
  R3-9h
  Advance reversible lane control transition
• 
  R3-9i
  End reverse lane
• 
  R3-10
  Preferential lane vehicle occupancy definition (post-mounted)
• 
  R3-10a
  Preferential lane vehicle occupancy definition (post-mounted)
• 
  R3-11
  Preferential lane operation, high-occupancy vehicles (post-mounted)
• 
  R3-11a
  Preferential lane operation, high-occupancy vehicles (post-mounted)
• 
  R3-11d
  Preferential lane operation (post-mounted)
• 
  R3-11b
  Preferential lane operation, high-occupancy vehicles, full-time (post-mounted)
• 
  R3-12
  Preferential lane ahead, high-occupancy vehicles (post-mounted)
• 
  R3-12a
  Preferential lane ends, high-occupancy vehicles (post-mounted)
• 
  R3-12
  Preferential lane ends, high-occupancy vehicles (post-mounted)
• 
  R3-13
  Preferential lane vehicle occupancy definition (overhead)
• 
  R3-13a
  Preferential lane vehicle occupancy definition (overhead)
• 
  R3-14
  HOV lane operation (overhead)
• 
  R3-14a
  HOV lane operation (overhead)
• 
  R3-14b
  HOV lane operation (overhead)
• 
  R3-15
  HOV lane ahead (overhead)
• 
  R3-15a
  HOV lane begins XX miles (overhead)
• 
  R3-17
  Bike lane
• 
  R3-18
  No U or left turn
• 
  R3-23
  All turns from right lane (used at jug handles)
• 
  R3-24
  All turns (diagonal right arrow) (used at jug handles)
• 
  R3-24a
  U and left turns (diagonal right arrow) (used at jug handles)
• 
  R3-27
  No straight through
• 
  R3-29P
  Pay toll (plaque)
• 
  R3-33R
  Right lane must exit

R4 series: Regulation of movement

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.

• 
  R4-1
  Do not pass
• 
  R4-2
  Pass with care
• 
  R4-3
  Slower traffic keep right
• 
  R4-4
  Begin right turn lane yield to bikes
• 
  R4-5
  Trucks use right lane
• 
  R4-6
  Truck lane 500 feet
• 
  R4-7
  Keep right
• 
  R4-7a
  Keep right
• 
  R4-7b
  Keep right
• 
  R4-7c
  Keep right of obstacle
• 
  R4-8
  Keep left
• 
  R4-8a
  Keep left
• 
  R4-8b
  Keep left
• 
  R4-8c
  Keep left of obstacle
• 
  R4-9
  Stay in lane
• 
  R4-10
  Runaway vehicles only
• 
  R4-11
  Cyclists may use full lane
• 
  R4-12
  Slow vehicles with five or more following vehicles must use turn-out
• 
  R4-13
  Slow vehicles must use turn-out ahead
• 
  R4-14
  Slow vehicles must turn out
• 
  R4-16
  Keep right except to pass
• 
  R4-17
  Do not drive on shoulder
• 
  R4-18
  Do not pass on shoulder

R5 series: Exclusionary

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.

• 
  R5-1
  Do not enter
• 
  R5-1a
  Wrong way
• 
  R5-1b
  Wrong way for bicycles
• 
  R5-2
  No trucks
• 
  R5-3
  No motorized vehicles
• 
  R5-4
  No commercial vehicles
• 
  R5-5
  No lugged vehicles
• 
  R5-6
  No bicycles
• 
  R5-7
  No non-motorized traffic
• 
  R5-8
  No motor driven cycles
• 
  R5-10
  No pedestrians, bicycles or motor driven cycles
• 
  R5-10a
  No pedestrians, bicycles or motor driven cycles on freeway
• 
  R5-10b
  No pedestrians or bicycles
• 
  R5-10c
  No pedestrians
• 
  R5-11
  No unauthorized vehicles
• 
  R5-12
  No thru traffic

R6 series: One way and divided highway

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.

• 
  R6-1R
  One way (right)
• 
  R6-1L
  One way (left)
• 
  R6-2R
  One way (with arrow) (right)
• 
  R6-2L
  One way (with arrow)
  (left)
• 
  R6-3
  Divided highway crossing
• 
  R6-3a
  Divided highway crossing, T-intersection
• 
  R6-4
  Chevron roundabout directional
• 
  R6-4a
  Chevron roundabout (three chevrons)
• 
  R6-4b
  Chevron roundabout (four chevrons)
• 
  R6-5P
  Roundabout circulation (plaque)
• 
  R6-6
  Begin one way
• 
  R6-7
  End one way

R7 series: Parking

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. 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. As with no parking signs, some restrictions displayed on the signs are permanent, and some are time-based.

• 
  R7-1
  No parking any time
• 
  R7-2
  No parking from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm
• 
  R7-2a
  No parking from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm (alternative)
• 
  R7-3
  No parking except Sundays and Holidays
• 
  R7-4
  No standing any time
• 
  R7-5
  One hour parking time
• 
  R7-108
  Two hour parking time
• 
  R7-6
  No parking, loading zone
• 
  R7-20
  Parking fee station
• 
  R7-8
  Reserved parking (wheelchair)
• 
  R7-8aP
  Van accessible
• 
  R7-107
  No parking, bus stop
• 
  R7-22
  Parking pay parking
• 
  R7-200a
  No parking and one hour parking time (combined)
• 
  R7-201P
  Tow away zone

R8 series: Parking and emergency restrictions

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.

• 
  R8-1
  No parking on pavement
• 
  R8-2
  No parking except on shoulder
• 
  R8-3
  No parking
• 
  R8-3a
  No parking (text)
• 
  R8-3bP
  Exception of Sundays and holidays
• 
  R8-3c
  On pavement
• 
  R8-3d
  On bridge
• 
  R8-3eP
  On tracks plaque
• 
  R8-3fP
  Except on shoulder plaque
• 
  R8-3gP
  Loading zone
• 
  R8-4
  Emergency parking only
• 
  R8-5
  No stopping on pavement
• 
  R8-6
  No stopping except on shoulder
• 
  R8-7
  Emergency stopping only
• 
  R8-8
  Do not stop on tracks
• 
  R8-9
  Tracks out of service
• 
  R8-10a
  Stop here when flashing

R9 series: Bicycles and pedestrians

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.

• 
  R9-1
  Walk on left facing traffic
• 
  R9-2
  Cross only at cross walks
• 
  R9-3
  No pedestrians crossing (symbol)
• 
  R9-3a
  No pedestrians crossing
• 
  R9-3b
  Use crosswalk (plaque)
• 
  R9-4
  No hitchhiking (symbol)
• 
  R9-4a
  No hitchhiking
• 
  R9-7
  Bicycles left pedestrians right
• 
  R9-10
  Sidewalk Closed Use Other Side
• 
  R9-13
  No skaters
• 
  R9-14
  No equestrians
• 
  R9-15
  No snowmobiles
• 
  R9-16
  No all-terrain vehicles
• 
  R9-19P
  Except on shoulder (plaque)

R10 series: Traffic signal

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.

• 
  R10-1
  Cross only on green
• 
  R10-2
  Cross only on pedestrian signal
• 
  R10-3
  Push button for walk signal
• 
  R10-3a
  Push button to cross street, wait for pedestrian signal
• 
  R10-3b
  Crosswalk signal instructions
• 
  R10-3c
  Crosswalk signal instructions
• 
  R10-3d
  Crosswalk signal instructions
• 
  R10-3e
  Crosswalk signal instructions
• 
  R10-3f
  Crosswalk signal instructions
• 
  R10-3g
  Crosswalk signal instructions
• 
  R10-3h
  Crosswalk signal instructions
• 
  R10-3i
  Crosswalk signal instructions
• 
  R10-4
  Push button for green
• 
  R10-4a
  Push button to cross street, wait for green
• 
  R10-5
  Left on green arrow only
• 
  R10-6
  Stop here on red
• 
  R10-6a
  Stop here on red (alternate)
• 
  R10-7
  Do not block intersection
• 
  R10-8
  Use lane with green arrow
• 
  R10-10L
  Left turn signal
• 
  R10-10R
  Right turn signal
• 
  R10-11
  No turn on red
• 
  R10-11a
  No turn on circular red
• 
  R10-12
  Left turn yield on green
• 
  R10-12a
  Left turn yield on flashing yellow arrow
• 
  R10-12b
  Left turn yield to bicycle
• 
  R10-13
  Emergency signal
• 
  R10-14
  Emergency signal - stop on flashing red
• 
  R10-14a
  Emergency signal - stop on flashing red (overhead)
• 
  R10-15
  Turning vehicles yield to pedestrians
  
• 
  R10-15a
  Turning vehicles stop to pedestrians
  
• 
  R10-16
  U-turn yield to right turn
• 
  R10-17a
  Right on red arrow after stop
• 
  R10-18
  Traffic laws photo enforced
• 
  R10-18a
  Traffic signal photo enforced
• 
  R10-19aP
  Photo enforced (plaque)
• 
  R10-20aP
  Days & times (plaque) (for use with R10-11 series) (2 lines)
• 
  R10-20aP
  Days & times (plaque) (for use with R10-11 series) (3 lines)
• 
  R10-22
  Bicycles to request green wait on line
• 
  R10-23
  Crosswalk - stop on red
• 
  R10-23a
  Stop on red - yield on flashing red after stop
• 
  R10-25
  Push button to turn on warning lights
• 
  R10-27
  Left turn yield on flashing red arrow after stop
• 
  Left turn yield on flashing yellow arrow, version 1
• 
  Left turn yield on flashing arrow, version 2
• 
  R10-28
  XX vehicles per green
• 
  R10-29
  XX vehicles per green each lane
• 
  R10-30
  Right turn on red must yield to U-turn
• 
  R10-31P
  At signal (plaque)
• 
  R10-32P
  Push button for 2 seconds for extra crossing time

R11 series: Road closed

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.

• 
  R11-1
  Keep off median
• 
  R11-2
  Road closed
• 
  R11-2a
  Street closed
• 
  R11-2b
  Bridge out
• 
  R11-2c
  Path closed
• 
  R11-3
  Road closed XX miles ahead, local traffic only
• 
  R11-3a
  Street closed XX miles ahead, local traffic only
• 
  R11-3b
  Bridge out XX miles ahead, local traffic only
• 
  R11-4
  Road closed to thru traffic

R12 series: Weight limits

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.

• 
  R12-1
  Weight limit
• 
  R12-2
  Axle weight limit
• 
  R12-3
  Truck weight limit
• 
  R12-4
  Weight limit with per axle and gross
• 
  R12-5
  Weight limit with truck symbols

R13 series: Weigh stations

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.

• 
  R13-1
  Trucks over X tons must enter weigh station next right

R14 series: Truck routes

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

• 
  R14-1
  Truck route sign
• 
  R14-2
  Hazardous material route
• 
  R14-3
  Hazardous material prohibited
• 
  R14-4
  National Network Route
• 
  R14-5
  National Network prohibited

R15 series: Rail and light rail

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.

• 
  R15-1
  Railroad crossing (crossbuck)
• 
  R15-2P
  Number of tracks
• 
  R15-3P
  Vehicles required to stop are exempt from this regulation
• 
  R15-4a
  Light rail only in right lane
• 
  R15-4b
  Light rail only in left lane
• 
  R15-4c
  Light rail only in center lane
• 
  R15-5
  Do not pass stopped trains
• 
  R15-6
  Do not drive on tracks
• 
  R15-7
  Divided highway transit rail crossing
• 
  R15-7a
  Divided highway transit rail crossing (T-intersection)
• 
  R15-8
  Look both ways at track

R16 series: Seat belts and headlight use

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.

• 
  R16-1
  Wear seat belt
• 
  R16-4
  Fender bender
• 
  R16-6
  Lights on when raining
• 
  R16-8
  Turn on headlights
• 
  R16-9
  Check headlights

Warning signs

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

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.

• 
  W1-1R
  Turn (right)
• 
  W1-1L
  Turn (left)
• 
  W1-2R
  Curve (right)
• 
  W1-2L
  Curve (left)
• 
  W1-3R
  Reverse turn (right)
• 
  W1-3L
  Reverse turn (left)
• 
  W1-4R
  Reverse curve (right)
• 
  W1-4L
  Reverse curve (left)
• 
  CW1-4aR
  Single lane shift (right)
• 
  CW1-4aL
  Single lane shift (left)
• 
  CW1-4bR
  Double lane shift (right)
• 
  CW1-4bL
  Double lane shift (left)
• 
  CW1-4cR
  Triple lane shift (right)
• 
  CW1-4cL
  Triple lane shift (left)
• 
  W1-5R
  Winding road (right)
• 
  W1-5L
  Winding road (left)
• 
  W1-6R
  Arrow (right)
• 
  W1-6L
  Arrow (left)
• 
  W1-7
  Two-direction large arrow
• 
  W1-8R
  Chevron (right)
• 
  W1-8L
  Chevron (left)
• 
  W1-10R
  Curve with side road (right)
• 
  W1-10L
  Curve with side road (left)
• 
  W1-10aR
  Curve with crossroad (right)
• 
  W1-10aL
  Curve with crossroad (left)
• 
  W1-10bR
  Curve with tangent (right)
• 
  W1-10bL
  Curve with tangent (left)
• 
  W1-10cR
  Curve with tangent from side (right)
• 
  W1-10cL
  Curve with tangent from side (left)
• 
  W1-10dR
  Reverse curve with side road (right)
• 
  W1-10dL
  Reverse curve with side road (left)
• 
  W1-10eR
  Reverse curve with crossroad (right)
• 
  W1-10eL
  Reverse curve with crossroad (left)
• 
  W1-11R
  Hairpin curve (right)
• 
  W1-11L
  Hairpin curve (left)
• 
  W1-13R
  Truck rollover warning (right)
• 
  W1-13L
  Truck rollover warning (left)
• 
  W1-15R
  270 degree loop curve (right)
• 
  W1-15L
  270 degree loop curve (left)

W2 series: Intersections

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

• 
  W2-1
  Crossroad
• 
  W2-2L
  Side road left
• 
  W2-2R
  Side road right
• 
  W2-3L
  Side road at an acute angle left
• 
  W2-3R
  Side road at an acute angle right
• 
  W2-3aL
  Side road at an obtuse angle left
• 
  W2-3aR
  Side road at an obtuse angle right
• 
  W2-4
  T-intersection
• 
  W2-5
  Y-intersection
• 
  W2-6
  Roundabout
• 
  W2-7L
  Offset side roads left and right
• 
  W2-7R
  Offset side roads right and left
• 
  W2-8L
  Double side roads left
• 
  W2-8R
  Double side roads right
• 
  W2-10
  Traffic Entering When Flashing
• 
  W2-11
  Traffic Approaching When Flashing

W3 series: Advance traffic control

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

• 
  W3-1
  Stop sign ahead
• 
  W3-2
  Yield sign ahead
• 
  W3-3
  Traffic light ahead
• 
  W3-4
  Be prepared to stop
• 
  W3-5
  Speed limit ahead
• 
  W3-5A
  Speed zone ahead
• 
  W3-5b
  Variable Speed Zone Ahead
• 
  W3-5c
  XX MPH Truck Speed Zone Ahead
• 
  W3-6
  Draw bridge ahead
• 
  W3-7
  Ramp meter ahead
• 
  W3-8
  Ramp metered when flashing
• 
  W3-9
  Traffic Using Shoulder

W4 series: Lanes and merges

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

• 
  W4-1R
  Merge (right)
• 
  W4-1L
  Merge (left)
• 
  W4-2R
  Lane ends (right)
• 
  W4-2L
  Lane ends (left)
• 
  W4-3R
  Added right lane
• 
  W4-3L
  Added left lane
• 
  W4-4P
  Cross traffic does not stop (plaque)
• 
  W4-5R
  Merge right (entering roadway)
• 
  W4-5L
  Merge left (entering roadway)
• 
  W4-5aP
  No merge area (plaque)
• 
  W4-6R
  Added right lane (entering roadway)
• 
  W4-6L
  Added left lane (entering roadway)
• 
  W4-7L
  Heavy merge from left
• 
  W4-7R
  Heavy merge from right
• 
  W4-8
  Single lane transition

W5 series: Road width restrictions

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

• 
  W5-1
  Road narrows
• 
  W5-2
  Narrow bridge
• 
  W5-2a
  Narrow bridge
• 
  W5-3
  One lane bridge
• 
  W5-3a
  One lane underpass
• 
  W5-4a
  Path narrows
• 
  W5-4A
  Bikeway narrows

W6 series: Divided highway

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

• 
  W6-1
  Divided highway begins
• 
  W6-2
  Divided highway ends
• 
  W6-3
  Two-way traffic
• 
  W6-5
  Two-way traffic (3-Lane, two lanes in the opposing direction)
• 
  W6-5a
  Two-way traffic (3-Lane, one lane in the opposing direction)

W7 series: Hills

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

• 
  W7-1
  Steep grade/hill
• 
  W7-1A
  Hill
• 
  W7-1B
  Steep grade/hill percentage
• 
  W7-2P
  Use low gear
• 
  W7-2bP
  Trucks use lower gear
• 
  W7-3P
  X% grade ahead
• 
  W7-3aP
  Next XX miles ahead
• 
  W7-3bP
  X% grade XX miles ahead
• 
  W7-4
  Runaway truck ramp ahead
• 
  W7-4b
  Runaway truck ramp (right)
• 
  W7-4bL
  Runaway truck ramp (left)
• 
  W7-4b
  Runaway truck ramp this lane
• 
  W7-4c
  Truck escape ramp
• 
  W7-4dP
  Sand
• 
  W7-4eP
  Gravel
• 
  W7-4fP
  Paved
• 
  W7-5
  Hill (bike)
• 
  W7-6
  Hill blocks view

W8 series: Pavement and roadway conditions

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

• 
  W8-1
  Bump
• 
  W8-2
  Dip
• 
  W8-3
  Pavement ends
• 
  W8-4
  Soft shoulder
• 
  W8-5
  Slippery when wet ahead
  (formerly used )
• 
  W8-7
  Loose gravel
• 
  W8-8
  Rough road
• 
  W8-10
  Bicycle slippery when wet ahead
• 
  W8-11
  Uneven lanes
• 
  W8-12
  No center line
• 
  W8-13
  Bridge ices before road
• 
  W8-14
  Fallen rocks
• 
  W8-16
  Metal bridge deck
• 
  W8-18
  Road may flood
• 
  W8-19
  Flood gauge
• 
  W8-21
  Gusty Winds Area
• 
  W8-22
  Fog area
• 
  W8-23
  No shoulder ahead
• 
  W8-25
  Shoulder ends
• 
  W8-26
  Road Ends Advance
• 
  W8-26a
  Street Ends Advance

W9 series: Lane transitions

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

• 
  W9-1L
  Left lane ends
• 
  W9-1R
  Right lane ends
• 
  W9-2R
  Lane ends merge right
• 
  W9-2L
  Lane ends merge left
• 
  CW9-3L
  Center lane closed ahead (text sign used from 2000 to 2023)
• 
  CW9-3L
  Center lane closed ahead (symbol sign used since 2023)
• 
  W9-4
  Lanes Merge
• 
  W9-5
  Bicycle Lane Ends
• 
  W9-5a
  Bicycles Merging
• 
  W9-6dP
  Stop Ahead Pay Toll (plaque)
• 
  W9-6e
  Take Ticket XX Miles
• 
  W9-6f
  Stop Ahead Take Ticket
• 
  W9-6gP
  Take Ticket XX Miles (plaque)
• 
  W9-6hP
  Stop Ahead Take Ticket (plaque)

W10 series: Railroad crossings

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

• 
  W10-1
  Railroad crossing ahead
• 
  W10-1aP
  Exempt (plaque)
• 
  W10-2R
  Crossroads with parallel tracks (right)
• 
  W10-2L
  Crossroads with parallel tracks (left)
• 
  W10-3R
  Side road with parallel tracks (right)
• 
  W10-3L
  Side road with parallel tracks (left)
• 
  W10-4R
  T intersection with parallel tracks (right)
• 
  W10-4L
  T intersection with parallel tracks (left)
• 
  W10-5
  Low ground clearance railroad crossing
• 
  W10-5P
  Low ground clearance plaque
• 
  W10-7
  Light rail activated sign
• 
  W10-8
  Trains may exceed XX mph
• 
  W10-9
  No train horn warning
• 
  W10-9P
  No train horn plaque
• 
  W10-11
  Storage space symbol
• 
  W10-11a
  XX feet between tracks and highway
• 
  W10-11b
  XX feet between highway and tracks behind you
• 
  W10-12R
  Skewed crossing ahead (this supplements the W10-1 sign but does not replace it)
• 
  W10-13P
  No gates or lights (plaque)
• 
  W10-14P
  Next crossing (plaque)
• 
  W10-14aP
  Use next crossing (plaque)
• 
  W10-15P
  Rough crossing (plaque)
• 
  W10-16
  Activated Blank-Out
• 
  W10-21
  Busway Crossing
• 
  W10-21aP
  Signal Ahead (plaque)

W11 series: Advance warnings

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

• 
  W11-1
  Bicycle
• 
  W11-2
  Pedestrians
• 
  W11-3
  Deer
• 
  W11-4
  Cattle
• 
  W11-5
  Farm vehicles
• 
  W11-6
  Snowmobile
• 
  W11-7
  Equestrian
• 
  W11-8
  Emergency vehicle
• 
  W11-9
  Handicapped
• 
  W11-10
  Truck
• 
  W11-11
  Golf cart
• 
  W11-14
  Horse-drawn vehicles
• 
  W11-15
  Bicycle and pedestrians
• 
  W11-16
  Bear
• 
  W11-17
  Sheep
• 
  W11-18
  Ram
• 
  W11-19
  Donkey
• 
  W11-20
  Elk
• 
  W11-21
  Moose
• 
  W11-22
  Wild horse

W12 series: Low Clearance Warnings

The MUTCD's W12 series of signs is for warning signs relating to low clearance. Metric low bridge signs in meters used to be authorized but extremely rare, usually seen near the borders with Canada and Mexico, both of which use the metric system. They have been discontinued as of 2012. Many states, however, disallowed the use of metric signs on state-maintained roads due to system restrictions, increasing the rarity of such signs. As not all situations are covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

• 
  W12-1
  Double arrow
• 
  W12-2
  Low clearance
• 
  W12-2
  Low clearance (metric)
• 
  W12-2a
  Sign displays height of bridge
• 
  W12-2b
  Low Clearance - Lane Overhead

W13 series: Advisory speeds

The MUTCD's W13 series of signs is for warning signs relating to advisory speeds. Speed limits in the United States are always in miles per hour. Metric advisory speed signs in kilometers per hour used to be authorized but extremely rare, usually seen near the borders with Canada and Mexico, both of which use the metric system. They have been discontinued as of 2012. Many states, however, disallowed the use of metric signs on state-maintained roads due to system restrictions, increasing the rarity of such signs. As not all situations are covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

• 
  W13-1P
  Speed advisory
• 
  W13-1
  Speed advisory metric
• 
  W13-1aP
  Advisory Speed Confirmation (plaque)
• 
  W13-2
  Exit speed advisory
• 
  W13-3
  Ramp speed advisory
• 
  W13-6
  Exit speed advisory (270 degree loop curve)
• 
  W13-7
  Ramp speed advisory (270 degree loop curve)
• 
  W13-8
  Combination Horizontal Alignment-Advisory Exit Speed
• 
  W13-9
  Combination Horizontal Alignment-Advisory Ramp Speed
• 
  W13-10
  Combination Horizontal Alignment-Advisory Exit Speed - Turn
• 
  W13-11
  Combination Horizontal Alignment-Advisory Ramp Speed - Turn
• 
  W13-12
  Combination Horizontal Alignment-Advisory Exit Speed-Truck Rollover
• 
  W13-13
  Combination Horizontal Alignment-Advisory Ramp Speed-Truck Rollover
• 
  W13-20
  Variable Speed Feedback
• 
  W13-20aP
  Variable Speed Feedback (plaque)

W14 series: Dead end streets and no passing zones

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. As not all situations are covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

• 
  W14-1
  Dead end
• 
  W14-1aR
  Dead end on the right
• 
  W14-1aL
  Dead end on the left
• 
  W14-2
  No outlet
• 
  W14-2aR
  No outlet on the right
• 
  W14-2aL
  No outlet on the left
• 
  W14-3
  No passing zone

W15 series: Playgrounds

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

• 
  W15-1
  Playground

W16 series: Supplemental plaques

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

• 
  W16-1aP
  In Street (plaque)
• 
  W16-1P
  In Road (plaque)
• 
  W16-2P
  500 feet
• 
  W16-2aP
  500 feet
• 
  W16-3P
  2 miles
• 
  W16-3aP
  2 miles
• 
  W16-4P
  Next 500 feet
• 
  W16-18P
  Notice
• 
  W16-5PR
  Supplemental arrow to the right (plaque)
• 
  W16-5PL
  Supplemental arrow to the left (plaque)
• 
  W16-6PR
  Supplemental arrow to the right (plaque)
• 
  W16-6PL
  Supplemental arrow to the left (plaque)
• 
  W16-7PR
  Downward diagonal arrow to the right (plaque)
• 
  W16-7PL
  Downward diagonal arrow to the left (plaque)
• 
  W16-07aP
  Dual Downward Diagonal Arrow (plaque)
• 
  W16-8P
  Advance Street Name Plaque
• 
  W16-8aP
  Advance Street Name Plaque (double arrow)
• 
  W16-9P
  Ahead
• 
  W16-10aP
  Photo enforced
• 
  W16-11
  HOV
• 
  W16-12
  Roundabout junction plaque
• 
  W16-13P
  When flashing
• 
  W16-15P
  New
• 
  W16-16aP
  Last Exit Before Toll (2-line plaque)
• 
  W16-17P
  Toll (plaque)
• 
  W16-19P
  Last In Corridor (plaque)
• 
  W16-20P
  Except Bicycles (plaque)
• 
  W16-21P
  2-Way Bicycle Cross Traffic (plaque)

W17 series: Speed humps

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

• 
  W17-1
  Speed hump

W18 series: No traffic signs

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

• 
  W18-1
  No traffic signs

W19 series: Freeway or expressway end signs

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

• 
  W19-1
  Freeway ends XX mile
• 
  W19-2
  Expressway ends XX mile
• 
  W19-3
  Freeway ends
• 
  W19-4
  Expressway ends
• 
  W19-5
  All traffic must exit

W20 series: Work zones

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 not all situations are covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

• 
  G20-1
  Road work next 5 miles
• 
  G20-2
  End road work
• 
  G20-5aP
  Work zone plaque (usually under an R2 speed limit sign)
• 
  CW20-1
  Road work 1000 feet ahead
• 
  CW20-3
  Road closed ahead
• 
  CW20-3
  Road is closed 1000 feet ahead
• 
  M4-8a
  End detour
• 
  M4-8b
  End (if a road work blocked road)
• 
  M4-9R
  Detour (right)
• 
  M4-9L
  Detour (left)
• 
  CW20-7
  Flagger ahead (symbol sign)
• 
  CW20-7a
  Flagger ahead (text sign)

W21 series: Road work

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.

• 
  CW20-4
  One lane road XXXX feet ahead
• 
  CW3-4
  Be prepared to stop
• 
  CW21-1
  Men working
• 
  CW21-2
  Fresh oil
• 
  CW21-7
  Utility work ahead

W22 series: Blasting zones

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 not all situations are covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

• 
  CW22-1
  Blasting zone ahead
• 
  R22-2
  Turn off 2-way radios and cell phones
• 
  CW22-3
  End blasting zone

W23 series: Slow traffic

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 not all situations are covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

• 
  CW23-1
  Slow traffic ahead
• 
  CW23-2
  New traffic pattern ahead
• 
  W23-2a
  New Signal Operation Ahead

W24 series: Lane shifts

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 not all situations are covered, several states have their own standards in addition to the MUTCD.

• 
  CW24-1R
  Double reverse curve (right) (1 lane)
• 
  CW24-1L
  Double reverse curve (left) (1 lane)
• 
  CW24-aR
  Double reverse curve (right) (2 lanes)
• 
  CW24-aL
  Double reverse curve (left) (2 lanes)
• 
  CW24-1bL
  Double reverse curve (right) (3 lanes)
• 
  CW24-1bL
  Double reverse curve (left) (3 lanes)
• 
  CW24-1cP
  All lanes

W25 series: Oncoming traffic has extended green

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

• 
  W25-1
  Extended green
• 
  W25-2
  Possible extended green

W26 series: Watch for stopped traffic

• 
  W26-1
  Watch For Stopped Traffic

Guide signs

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 (and should indicate center lane exit).

Interchange signs

• 
• 
  E6-1a
  Pull-through sign

• 
  E5-1a
  Exit number sign
• 
  E5-1
  Exit sign
• 
  E5-1a and E13-1P
  Exit number sign with speed advisory
• 
  D2-3
  Mileage signs for highway routes
• 
  Interchange Exit Direction Sign

• 
  Specific service signs for food (as shown)
• 
  D5-1
  Rest area (needs to be updated to 2012 SHSM standards)
• 
  D5-12
  Interstate oasis
• 
  D9-18
  Advanced services sign

Toll signs

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

• 
  R3-44
  Toll road pass only
• 
  R3-44a
  Toll road pass or high-occupancy vehicle (HOV)
• 
  R3-48
  Toll costs on express lane
• 
  R3-48a
  Toll costs on express lane or HOV
• 
  MUTCD conventional toll plaza advance sign
• 
  MUTCD conventional toll plaza advance sign
• 
  R3-29P
  Pay toll
• 
  R3-31
  Electronic toll collection pass only
• 
  R2-3
  Toll late speed limit (Puerto Rico, Spanish)
• 
  R3-30P
  Take ticket
• 
  R3-28
  Toll pricing

Motorist services

• 
  D9-1
  Telephone
• 
  D9-2
  Hospital
• 
  D9-3
  Camping
• 
  D9-3a
  Trailer camping
• 
  D9-4
  Litter container
• 
  D9-6
  Handicapped accessible
• 
  D9-7
  Gas
• 
  D9-8
  Food
• 
  RM-050
  Food
• 
  D9-9
  Lodging
• 
  D9-10
  General information
• 
  D9-11
  Diesel fuel
• 
  D9-11a
  Alternative fuel (CNG)
• 
  D9-11b
  Electric vehicle charging
• 
  D9-11c
  Alternative fuel (E85)
• 
  D9-12
  RV sanitary station
• 
  D9-13
  Ambulance symbol
• 
  D9-14
  Police
• 
  D9-15
  Propane gas
• 
  D9-16
  Truck parking
• 
  D9-20
  Pharmacy
• 
  D9-21
  Telecommunication (TDD/TYY)
• 
  D9-22
  Wireless internet

General information

• 
  I1-1
  Traffic signal speed
• 
  I2-1
  State line
• 
  I2-2
  River
• 
  I3-5
  Airport
• 
  I3-6
  Bus station
• 
  I3-7
  Train station
• 
  I4-1
  Library
• 
  I-11
  Recycling collection center
• 
  I3-8
  Light rail station

School zone signs

The S series of signs are 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. The adoption of the 2009 MUTCD required school warning signs to have fluorescent yellow-green backgrounds.

• 
  S1-1
  School zone ahead (also used for pedestrian crosswalks near schools) since 1998
• 
  S1-1
  School (1971–2009)
• 
  S3-1
  School bus stop ahead
• 
  S3-1
  School bus stop ahead (1971–2009)
• 
  S3-1
  School bus stop ahead (1998–2009)
• 
  S3-2
  School bus turn ahead
• 
  S3-2
  School bus turn ahead (1971-2009)
• 
  S4-1P
  Time of Day
• 
  S4-2P
  When children are present
• 
  S4-3P
  School plaque
• 
  S4-4P
  When lights flashing
• 
  S4-5
  School speed limit ahead
• 
  S4-5a
  School Speed zone ahead
• 
  S4-6P
  Day(s) of the week
• 
  S4-7P
  All year school zone ahead
• 
  S5-1
  School speed limit when flashing
• 
  S5-2
  End school zone (usually under an R2 speed limit sign
• 
  S5-3
  End of school speed limit

See also

• Comparison of traffic signs in English-speaking countries
• Crosswalks in North America
• Glossary of road transport terms
• Road signs in Canada
• Street signs in Chicago – Street name signs
• Street signs in New York City – Street name signs
• Road signs in Puerto Rico
• Warning sign

External links

• Media related to Road signs in the United States at Wikimedia Commons