Highway Code

Get The official DVSA guide to riding and Get The official highway code or Download

  1. Signs giving orders: These are regulatory signs that instruct road users about what they must or must not do. They are usually circular with a red border. Examples include:

    • "Stop" signs: Oblige drivers to come to a complete halt before proceeding.
    • "Give way" signs: Require drivers to yield to other traffic.
    • "No entry" signs: Prohibit entry to vehicles or pedestrians.
    • Speed limit signs: Indicate the maximum speed allowed on that particular road.

  2. Warning signs: These signs are designed to alert drivers to potential hazards on the road ahead. They are usually triangular with a red border. Examples include:

    • "Sharp bend ahead" signs: Warn drivers of upcoming sharp turns in the road.
    • "Pedestrian crossing" signs: Alert drivers to pedestrian crossings ahead.
    • "Slippery road" signs: Indicate that the road surface may be slippery due to weather conditions or oil spills.

  3. Direction signs: These signs provide information about destinations, routes, and directions. They are usually rectangular or square with a green background. Examples include:

    • "Motorway exit" signs: Indicate exits and junctions on motorways.
    • "Town center" signs: Guide drivers toward city or town centers.
    • "Airport" signs: Direct drivers to nearby airports.

  4. Information signs: These signs offer non-regulatory information to road users. They are usually rectangular or square with a blue background. Examples include:

    • "Hospital" signs: Provide directions to nearby hospitals or medical facilities.
    • "Tourist attraction" signs: Point out tourist sites or landmarks.
    • "Service station" signs: Indicate the location of nearby petrol stations or rest areas.

  5. Road work signs: These signs inform drivers about construction or maintenance work on the road ahead. They are usually diamond-shaped with a yellow background. Examples include:

    • "Roadworks ahead" signs: Warn drivers of upcoming road construction or repairs.
    • "Lane closure" signs: Indicate that certain lanes of the road are closed and drivers should merge into other lanes.
    • "Temporary speed limit" signs: Notify drivers of reduced speed limits in work zones for safety reasons.

Understanding and obeying these different types of signs is crucial for safe and efficient driving on the road. If you encounter any specific signs you're unsure about, referring to the Highway Code or seeking guidance from local authorities can help clarify their meanings and significance.