If you want to understand traffic signs better, this helpful guide is for you. General citizens, drivers, and people working in the traffic safety department should learn about the types of traffic signs.
Today, we have listed ninety-three common traffic sign types. Let’s see how these traffic signs keep the road safe for everyone.
Regulatory Signs (To Control Traffic Behavior)
1. Do Not Entry Sign
Do not enter signs placed to guide drivers about a particular area that is restricted for vehicles and foot travelers. You will generally see these signs at one-way streets, exits & restricted zones. If you ignore it, you may face fines and cause accidents.
2. Yield Sign
Yield sign has a triangle shape with a red border and white center. When you spot this sign, you should slow down your car or stop if needed. Plus, you must let others pass first if they are already on the highway.
3. Speed Limit Sign
Speed limit sign shows the highest speed you are allowed to drive on a road. You can adjust your vehicle’s speed according to the number mentioned on the sign board. If you drive faster than this speed, traffic officers may give you a fine.
4. One Way Sign
It says that road users can only go in one direction that is mentioned on the one way sign. So, if you drive the wrong way it can be dangerous for you and may lead to car crashes. Additionally, you should always follow the arrow on the sign.
5. Weight Limit Sign
The weight limit sign warns you about the maximum weight your vehicle can have to use a road/bridge. If you are a truck driver, you have to follow these instructions to avoid accidents and damage.
6. Height Limit Sign
Height limit symbols provide you information about the tallest vehicle that you can pass under a bridge and tunnel. If people (especially large vehicle operators) on the road don’t follow them, trucks or buses may get stuck and cause damage.
7. No Horn Sign
Transport departments install “No horn” signs where they need to warn you about horn-restricted zones. These places include: hospitals, schools, or quiet areas where noise can disturb people. If you inform them, you can create problems for you and for others too.
8. No Pedestrians Sign
You will see these signs in busy city areas, on paths, under bridges & at heavy traffic routes. They basically tell you that these sites are dangerous for walking. Whenever you spot a “No pedestrian” sign, you should stay alert and stay off that particular area.
9. No U-Turn Sign
No U-turn signs inform you that you should not turn your vehicles back where these borders are placed. Actually, these places have sharp curves, which can be risky for you if you take turns. That’s why you have to follow them to avoid sudden stops & crashes.
10. End of Speed Limit Sign
These signs show the legal speed limit such as maximum and minimum speed your vehicles can travel. You will see these signs at the end of construction zones, city areas & speed sensitive zones. So, you should never exceed the mentioned speed limit at any cost.
11. No Stopping/Standing Sign
When you drive on the road and spot a “no stopping/standing” sign, that means you can’t stop and park your automobile in such sites. This type of sign is generally used when road security management conveys strict messages to highway users.
12. Truck Prohibited Sign
Truck prohibited signs inform truck drivers that a particular road is not available. Because it is used on roads that are too narrow, crowded, and unsafe for your oversized machinery, its basic aim is to protect roads from heavy loads.
13. No Overtaking Sign
If you spot a sign board two cars side by side while driving on the road, it is a “no overtaking” sign. Basically, this sign warns drivers that they are not allowed to pass other vehicles. Plus, it is a legal prohibition that is important to protect you from vehicle collisions.
14. Restricted Zone Sign
The Restricted zone sign highlights areas where access is limited and controlled. For example: schools, government buildings & private properties. Only certain vehicles and people are allowed to enter in such locations. These signs help you to keep unauthorized entries away.
15. No Motorized Vehicles Sign
No motorized vehicles signs ban all motor-powered automobiles, such as your cars, scooters, and motorcycles. Traffic authorities placed these signs in bike lanes, parks, trails, and school zones. The main purpose is to keep the environment pollution-free.
16. Vehicles Prohibited Sign
The vehicle prohibited sign tells you that no cars, carts, cycles, or other vehicles are allowed in this area. Basically, these signs are placed near parks and markets. It usually shows a car with a red circle or line across it.
17. Width Limit Sign
This sign shows the maximum width of vehicle you can enter on that road if your vehicle is wider than 2 meters or specific size that is mentioned. Then you will be fined due to rule-breaking.
18. All MVS Prohibited Signs
Suppose you encounter a board that represents a red circle on a car or motorbike. Then it’s all VMS prohibited signs. It tells you that all types of engine vehicles are not allowed in this specific area. You will often find these signs in pedestrian zones.
19. Bullock Carts & Hand Carts Prohibited Sign
This sign is entirely opposite to the All VMS sign. Actually, this sign will stop you if you are using a hand cart or any other slow-moving vehicle except a cycle. You will encounter these signs in urban areas or on highways.
20. Tongas Prohibited Sign
Specifically, this sign shows that horse-drawn carts are not allowed here. On highways, motorways, and busy streets, such a cart can cause traffic delays or traffic jams.
21. Cycle Prohibited Sign
This sign means you can’t ride your cycle on that specific road. Actually, this sign is placed where cycling can be dangerous for you. Commonly placed near tunnels and highways.
22. Right Turn Prohibited Sign
At this point, you have to avoid a right turn. Basically, this sign shows that the right turn can be risky or may cause an accident. So, always follow this warning board.
23. Left Turn Prohibited Sign
Think twice before turning left when you encounter this signboard. Actually, this sign means a left turn is unsafe for you. If you ignore this board, it can put you at risk and may lead to fines.
24. Length Limit Sign
If your vehicle is too long, this sign says stop right here. This limit can vary according to the road requirements, usually 10 meters. Hilly, narrow, or rural roads commonly have these boards for safety purposes.
25. Load Limit Sign
Actually, not every road can handle heavily loaded vehicles. Some roads can get damaged due to your overloaded cargo trucks. That’s why traffic authorities put these signs to stop such entrances.
26. Axle Load Limit Sign
Axle load means how much pressure is pressed on the road by one axle (where wheels are attached) of your truck. This sign clearly mentions the allowed load limit of each axle on the road. For instance, single axle 4 Tons or tri-axle 12 Tons.
27. Compulsory Sound Horn Sign
Silence is not always safe, especially near blind turns. Actually, this sign tells you to blow your horn. Basically, these types of signs are placed where the upcoming vehicle is not visible to you. Like on hilly or sharp curve roads.
28. Compulsory Ahead / Turn Left Sign
You can’t take a right turn here. Because the “compulsory Ahead or Turn Left sign” indicates that you can move straight and can take a left turn only. If you don’t follow this sign you may get fined.
29. Compulsory Ahead Or Turn Right Sign
Left is not an option here because this sign board works against the above sign. Basically, it tells you that you can take a right turn or just go straight. These signs are placed to avoid confusion.
30. Compulsory Cycle Track Sign
If we talk about “compulsory Cycle Track” signs, they are used to inform cyclists that they can only use marked cycle areas. So, if you are a cycle user, you are not allowed to ride on the main road if you see this traffic sign around you.
31. Compulsory Bus Stop Sign
Installed on fixed spots where buses must stop to pick up and drop off passengers. Bus drivers must follow this regulatory sign to ensure safety for all. You can see them only at approved locations. This will also inform you exactly where to wait for the bus.
32. Restriction Ends Sign
The restriction ends sign lets you know that all specific road regulations, such as no overtaking & speed limits, have finished. Now you can drive free and continue to follow your normal traffic laws and maintain your car speed as well.
33. Stop Sign
A stop sign is one of the most common traffic signs that are placed on highways. When you notice this sign around you, it means you have to stop your car completely. Once you stop, look for other pedestrians or vehicles, and can move if the road is clear.
Warning Signs (For Alerting Drivers About Hazards)
34. Pedestrian Crossing Sign
This is the most common traffic sign. If you are in a vehicle, then be careful. Because the “Pedestrian Crossing sign” warns you that people are crossing the road. Basically, it’s a signal to slow down the vehicles.
35. Left Hand Curve Sign
Actually, this sign is placed on the sharp curves of the roads. They alert you that a sudden curve is coming. Moreover, they tell you that the direction of the road is changing to the left.
36. Right Hand Curve Sign
Basically, it works similarly to the above sign board. But the direction of the road turns to the right. Actually, this sign shows that a sharp turn is just here. Which is almost in the opposite direction, so slow down your car.
37. School Zone Speed Limit Sign
In school areas, you will obviously see a sign that shows speed limits. This means you should slow down your vehicle when kids are going to or leaving school. It basically secures the children.
38. Train Crossing Sign
“Train Crossing” this sign board warns you that the railway track is coming. They also remind you to follow the rules and regulations prescribed at the railway crossing.
39. Mini Roundabout Sign
The Mini Roundabout sign indicates that the intersection points are small. When you have to drive your car slowly in a clockwise direction, you should also allow the upcoming vehicles on your right to cross.
40. Narrow Road Sign
Basically, this sign tells you that the width of the road is decreasing. At that point, you should slow down and be alert! Let other vehicles space to cross safely. Always, watch out for oncoming traffic.
41. Right Hairpin Bend Sign
Right hairpin bend sign instructs drivers about a sharp and U-shaped (180 degree) turn to the right ahead. These types of turns are dangerous, so you should slow down your vehicles. You mostly spot them on tight, curved roads where they alert people about tricky paths.
42. Left Hairpin Bend Sign
The Left Hairpin Bend sign warns you that you have turned your steering wheel smoothly to the left. When you take turns, make sure there is no traffic that can disturb your bend. These signs are generally placed on mountains, curvy, and narrow roads.
43. Bump Sign
Bump traffic signs warn drivers that there is a sudden bump on the road. It is placed a short distance before the bump appears. This bump can cause your vehicle to bounce and shake if your car is traveling too fast. So, you should slow down to avoid damage.
44. Level Crossing Without Barrier Sign
These signs indicate to you that trains may cross here, but there is no physical barrier or gate to stop you. Now you need to show responsibility, be alert, and then look both ways before crossing the road. You may spot them in rural crossings & less busy rail lines.
45. Risk of Ice Sign
You may see this sign on bridges, shady areas, and high roads where the temperature is very low. These signs warn drivers that roads contain ice and your car will slip or lose control. It also reminds you to stay alert & keep a safe distance from other cars.\
46. Steep Descent Sign
When you drive on a road that goes down with sharp angles, you may notice a signboard where vehicles drop down. These signs are basically used where the slope is 10 % to 15 %. You should always decrease your automobile speed but with gentle breaks.
47. Steep Ascent Sign
The locations where the road slope is raised at a very sharp angle, steep ascents are used to inform the vehicle’s operators. You should change your car gear and slow it down to an adjustable speed. This will help your car have more power to climb safely.\
48. Right Reverse Bend Sign
The Right Reverse Bend sign tells you that there are dangerous curves in the road, first you will face it to the right. As roads twist quickly in these zones, you have to stay alert and slow down. It helps you prepare early for any tricky bends.
49. Left Reverse Bend Sign
These signs warn you that the road will twist with sharp turns, and the first turn will be to the left. This sign helps you slow down early and control your car carefully because roads can be tricky and dangerous if you’re moving too fast.
50. Road Widens Ahead Sign
It indicates that highways will get bigger and wider soon. You will have more space to drive, and sometimes there will be extra lanes. When roads change, these signs help you a lot to stay informed.
51. Narrow Bridge Ahead Sign
It is a triangle-shaped warning sign and has a bold black border and a white or yellow background. This type of traffic sign generally places less space to cross your car. You will see them before old bridges and in rural areas.
52. Loose Gravel Sign
The loose gravel sign guides you that the road ahead has small & loose stones on it. These stones can make your car slip. In this way, you may lose balance if you drive too fast. So, you should slow down your car and hold the wheel tightly.
53. Cycle Crossing Sign
A diamond-shaped board with a black bicycle is a “Cycle Crossing sign”. Actually, this sign informs you that there may be cyclists crossing the road. You just have to minimize your speed and beware!
54. School Ahead Sign
School ahead sign warns you that a school is nearby. Actually, this sign informs you early, so you should keep control of the car and slow it down. This board ensures the safety of children.
55. Ferry Ahead Sign
You need to be careful whenever you see the “Ferry Ahead” sign. Actually, this board is installed where there is a river, lake, or sea flowing. This means you should stop and use a boat to cross these zones.
56. Cross Road Ahead Sign
You can identify the crossroad ahead sign by the black cross (+) symbol inside it. This shows that vehicles may come from the right/left. Hence, you should pay extra attention and be alert. In case you ignore it, you may face serious accidents.
57. Gap In Median Sign
Well, it indicates that there is a space and a break in the middle of the road. These areas of roads have small openings, so you can use it only to turn your automobile or cross the road. But you have to be careful and watch for other vehicles too.
58. Side Road Right Sign
When you drive on the road and suddenly spot this sign, that means your current road will join the main highway typically from the right side. You may see cars enter your path from the right. So you should slow down and stop if needed.
59. Side Road Left Sign
In this case, another road will intersect with your path from the left side if this sign board is placed there. You need to watch for automobiles coming from that road. Plus, you should drive carefully to avoid accidents.
60. Y-Intersection Sign
The Y-Intersection sign warns you that the road will split into two, like the letter Y. Now you have to choose one direction, such as left or right. The reason is that traffic is present on both sides, so you should decide your path for your protection.
61. T-Intersection Sign
This sign indicates that your road comes to an end and joins another road (like letter T). The road locations where these signs are placed, you can’t go straight anymore. It means you must turn your vehicle to the right or left.
62. Staggered Intersection Sign
To indicate that two roads will join your current road, intersection warnings are used. It regulates that you have to decrease your car speed and look in both directions for safety. If you don’t obey it, you may face crashes & police will fine you for your careless behavior.
63. Major Road Ahead Sign
These signs are important where big and busy highways intersect with small roads. When you spot this sign, you need to drive slowly and check for high-speed traffic. Also, provide a way to other vehicles if needed.
64. Roundabout Sign
Roundabout sign is placed to inform you that there is a large circular intersection just before. You can adjust your vehicle’s speed exactly to what these areas demand. Additionally, you have to be prepared to provide a path to the already present vehicles at the roundabout.
65. Dangerous Dip Sign
It is a yellow diamond-shaped sign that shows a downward bump. Hence, when you notice that type of warning sign, you should slow down and be ready for sudden drops on the road. If you don’t follow this warning, your car and its tires may be damaged.
66. Rough Road Sign
This type of road sign indicates that the road is uneven or damaged. When you see this sign board be careful, slow down your car. Moreover, keep a distance from other vehicles and avoid sudden brakes.
67. Barrier Ahead Sign
The Barrier Ahead sign indicates that an obstacle is on the way. Basically, this obstacle can be a toll plaza, a check post, or any other temporary barrier. At that time, you should reduce your speed smoothly and stop.
68. Unguarded Level Crossing Sign
This sign alerts you that an unprotected railway crossing is ahead. Means there is no person available here. So, you are the only person who is responsible for this crossing, do not overtake at this point.
69. Guarded Level Crossing Sign
As the name suggests, such a crossing is guarded by a person. When you see this sign, just stay calm and wait for the instructions given by the guard. Carefully, follow his hand gestures.
Guide & Informational Signs (To Give Direction & Information)
70. Recreation Sign
Recreation signs are helpful for you to find relaxation and fun places. These signs point toward playgrounds, camping spots, and picnic areas. You can see them from a distance because they are brown in color and unique from other road signs.
71. Temporary Traffic Sign
During road construction, accidents and specific events, these signs warn drivers about ongoing work and situations. But these signs are placed for a short period. Plus, they informed you that there are workers, detours, and roadblocks on the road.
72. Incident Management Signs
This type of sign is placed to handle accidents, spills, and emergency conditions on roads. For example, these signs will guide drivers to alternate or safe routes. Also, convey the message when you have to provide space for emergency vehicles.
73. Bicycle Signs
To guide about bicycle paths, lanes & areas where bikes and cars can share the road. They basically regulate where you can operate your cycle and which zone is safe for cycling. When you spot them, slow down and provide a path to cyclists.
74. Directional Sign
If we talk about directional signs, they actually help you to find towns, cities, streets & important places such as hospitals/airports. There are arrows, place names, and distances to guide you to different locations and the right paths.
75. Red Road Signs
Red road signs are installed to show important information, restrictions, and prohibitions. The main aim is to remind drivers that they can’t take the wrong path or break the law as well. They are red in color, so you can easily spot them even in a hurry.
76. Parking Lot Sign
A parking lot sign is more than just a board. It tells you exactly where to enter, exit, and park your car. Moreover, basic parking rules are also mentioned. So you have to read and follow the instructions only.
77. Public Telephone Sign
This small symbol provides you with a big help. Actually, this sign tells you that there is a public phone or payphone coming. So, you can make an emergency call here if needed.
78. Petrol Pump Sign
This sign board tells you that there is a petrol station ahead. Sometimes, this board also shows the petrol pump’s distance. So, check your fuel gauge, reduce speed, and stay at your side.
79. Hospital Ahead Sign
As its name suggests, this sign shows that a hospital with an accident and emergency service is coming. When you encounter such a board, slow down your vehicle and don’t blow the horn.
80. Light Refreshments Sign
Basically, this sign tells you that light refreshments are available nearby. For instance, snacks, cold drinks, and tea. Here, you can rest and recharge yourself during a long journey.
81. Flood Gauge Sign
This sign warns you that the road can flood, especially in the case of rain. A measurement scale is printed, which shows how deep the water is. Beware! If the gauge shows a high water level, change your route.
82. Resting Place Sign
Do you see a black bed crafted on board? Then, congratulations, it shows that a point where you can rest is coming. These boards are placed near lodges or rest areas where refreshments are also available.
83. First Aid Sign
The First Aid sign points to the location where medical supplies are arranged. Basically, it is a sign board with a big + symbol on it. If you find this board, remember the location,it might be useful later.
84. Eating Place Sign
These sign boards are commonly placed on highways and long route roads. Actually, it tells you that a restaurant or dhaba is here. They can serve you a full meal here.
85. No Through Road Sign
If you find a “No Through” road sign, take it as a full stop. Because it tells you that there is no exit point on this road, or the road ends here. So if you want to go further, don’t choose that road.
86. No Through Side Road Sign
This board tells about the sides (left, right) of the road. It is placed when a left or right junction ends or doesn’t move further. Means that you can’t turn left or right. So you should stay on the main road.
87. Parking This Side Sign
This signboard is the green signal for your parking on the road. Specifically, its arrow indicates which side you should park. Always stay in the marked area to avoid penalties.
88. Parking Both Side Sign
At this point, you get the permission to park your vehicle on either the left or right side. Both sides are allowed for parking if you find an arrow pointing left and right.
89. Parking Scooter & Motorcycle Sign
Specifically, this sign board is placed for motorbikes. It marks the reserved area of parking for just scooters and bikes. At this point, you can’t park your car or any four-wheeler.
90. Cycle Parking Sign
Cycle parking sign indicates that at this location you can stop and park your cycle, bike, or bicycle. Plus, these signs help cyclists to know where they can park & lock their cycles without interpreting pathways and roads.
91. Taxi Stand Sign
Well, you can stop at those points where the “Taxi stand” sign is spotted and wait for your passengers. This sign helps taxi drivers and passengers, too. They mark the area where they can stop safely, and you can pick up and drop off your travelers easily.
92. Auto Rickshaw Stand Sign
This sign shows a special spot that is only made for auto rickshaws where they stop and wait for riders. Moreover, other vehicles are not allowed in this zone. If you need an auto, just look for this sign and you will easily find one waiting for you.
93. Parking Cycle Rickshaw Sign
Whenever you spot this sign, it tells you that the space is only for cycle rickshaws. Which means only they can stay here & pick/drop their passengers in this area. So, if you notice a sign with a blue square (‘P’ symbol), it points out to you that this is a cycle rickshaw zone.
Top Applications of Traffic Signs
- Parking Areas: Traffic signs are widely used in parking areas. Basically, you will see sign boards & know where to park. Moreover, to show specific directions and explain rules.
- Urban Roads & Streets: City life moves fast. Therefore, traffic signs help to keep that speed in control. That’s why signs like stop, no entry, pedestrian crossing, school zone, one way, two way, etc, are placed.
- Construction & Work Zones: As you know, there is a high risk of accidents in construction and work areas. So, construction companies install traffic barriers, uneven road sign,s and diversion boards.
- Highways & Expressways: At highways, the need for traffic signs increases. As a traffic authority, you should install sign boards like speed limit, sharp curve, exit sign, etc, for the safety of both the driver and the vehicle.
- Residential Areas: Local traffic authorities are responsible for the installation of traffic signs in residential areas. These include: houses, departments, and mobile homes as well.
- Housing Societies: In housing societies, traffic signs are set up to keep the area safe for all residents. Traffic sign placement became compulsory here because there are a lot of homes, narrow roads and playing areas.
- Sensitive Sites: You should place these signs in the zone of schools, hospitals, religious buildings and government offices. The main aim is to protect and guide patients, students and visitors.
- Forest Zone: As we all know, forest areas are full of animals, trees, and nature. Therefore, forest departments install traffic signs to protect both wildlife and drivers. It minimizes the risk of accidents caused by animals when they cross roads.
- Railway Crossings & Bridges: We also suggest you place traffic signs in this area and follow them, too, if you’re a citizen only. Here, these signs serve a major purpose, such as: with their help, you can avoid crashes with trains & can control your vehicles on high bridges.
Conclusion
In the end, you can see how different types of traffic signs help you stay safe and avoid fines. Each category has its own regulations that drivers & pedestrians should follow, because it is the law.
If you are looking for a top traffic sign supplier in China, you can talk to JACKWIN team today. We have a large stock of traffic signs ready for all your projects. Our product engineers can also customize traffic signs according to your brand, logo, color, and other requirements.
PT 
EN 
ES 
FR 
DE