Many regulatory signs are white rectangles or use a red circle and slash. They control speed, turns, lane use and passing. Read the symbol: it shows exactly what is required or forbidden.
Know the rule
A SPEED ZONE AHEAD sign means be prepared to change speed. Some freeway signs show both maximum and minimum limits, and driving below the minimum is illegal unless necessary for safety.
Handbook p. 69 ↗Know the rule
A red circle with a red slash from upper left to lower right means the action shown inside is not allowed.
Handbook p. 69 ↗
Know the rule
NO U-TURN signs are posted on divided highways and expressways. Median openings there are only for authorized vehicles such as police cars, ambulances, snow plows and construction or emergency vehicles.
Handbook p. 69 ↗
Know the rule
NO RIGHT TURN and NO LEFT TURN signs mean turns are not allowed in the direction of the arrow.
Handbook p. 69 ↗Know the rule
NO TURN ON RED prohibits a right turn on red, or a left turn on red between one-way streets. It may show a red circle instead of the word "red."
Handbook p. 70 ↗
Know the rule
Two-way left turn lane signs mark a center lane for left turns from both directions. The lane is also marked with yellow lines and white arrows.
Handbook p. 70 ↗Direction and lane signs:
- ONE WAY: travel only in the direction of the arrow
- APPROACHING A DIVIDED HIGHWAY: a median separates traffic on the road you'll turn onto or cross
- KEEP RIGHT: pass traffic islands, medians or obstructions on the side shown by the arrow
- SLOWER TRAFFIC KEEP RIGHT: on multilane highways, slower drivers use the right lane
More regulatory signs:
- STOP HERE ON RED: where it isn't clear where to stop at a traffic signal
- ROAD CLOSED: closed to all traffic; you may not continue
- DO NOT PASS: two-lane, two-way roads; yellow no-passing lines are also used
- PASS WITH CARE: end of the no-passing zone; pass only when safe
- BIKE LANE: solid white line that turns dotted before the corner; sometimes painted green
Put it into practice
You're stopped at a red light, want to turn right, and see a NO TURN ON RED sign showing a red circle. It means the same as the word version. Wait for the green.