This resource guide provides an overview of road regulatory, warning, guide, and symbol signs used in traffic control and roadway safety. Explore common traffic sign categories, symbols, colors, and applications to better understand signage standards and usage.

Roadway signs in the United States increasingly use symbols rather than words to convey their message. Symbols provide instant communication with roadway users, overcome language barriers, and are becoming standard for traffic control devices throughout the world. Familiarity with symbols on traffic signs is important for every road user in order to maintain the safety and efficiency of our transportation facilities.

The color of roadway signs is an important indicator of the information they contain.
Red on signs is limited to stop, yield, and prohibition signs
White background indicates a regulatory sign
Yellow conveys a general warning message
Green shows permitted traffic movements or directional guidance
Fluorescent yellow/green indicates pedestrian crossings and school zones
Orange is used for warning and guidance in roadway work zones
Coral is used for incident management signs
Blue indicates road user services, tourist information, and evacuation routes
Brown is for guidance to sites of public recreation or cultural interest