What this topic covers
Signs tell you what you must, must not and might need to do. Learn the shape and colour code and you can read almost any sign at a glance.
Practice questions
Q1Circular signs with a red border usually:
Round signs give orders. A red ring usually tells you something is prohibited (like no entry or a speed limit), while blue circles give positive instructions.
Q2Triangular signs with a red border are:
Upward-pointing red triangles warn you of a hazard ahead, such as a bend, junction or crossing, so you can prepare.
Q3What does an upturned (downward-pointing) triangle mean?
The inverted triangle is the give way sign. Slow down and be ready to stop, giving priority to traffic on the road you're joining.
Q4A blue circular sign means:
Blue circles give mandatory positive instructions, such as 'turn left ahead' or a minimum speed — things you must do.
Q5A solid white line along the centre of the road means:
You shouldn't cross or straddle a solid white centre line except in limited cases (e.g. to pass a stationary obstruction or a slow vehicle under 10 mph).
Q6Which road sign is the only one with an eight-sided (octagonal) shape?
The STOP sign is the unique octagon so it can be recognised even if dirty or snow-covered. You must stop completely at the line.
Q7On direction signs, a green background is used for:
Green signs show primary routes, blue shows motorways, and white signs with black borders show minor roads.
Q8A red circle with a number such as '40' inside it means:
A red ring shows a prohibition. With a number inside, it sets the maximum speed limit for that road.
Q9A flashing amber light at a pelican crossing means:
Flashing amber tells you to give way to any pedestrians still crossing; once the crossing is clear you may go.
Q10At traffic lights, red and amber showing together means:
Red-and-amber together means stop and prepare to move; don't go until the light turns green.
Q11A steady amber traffic light on its own means:
Amber means stop. Only continue if you're so close that pulling up suddenly might cause a crash.
Q12A green arrow lit at traffic lights means you may:
A green filter arrow lets you go that way when it's clear, even if the main light is still red.
Q13A blue rectangular sign usually gives:
Blue rectangles give information, such as directions or facilities; blue circles give positive instructions.
Q14A red circle with a single white horizontal bar means:
This 'no entry' sign means vehicles must not pass it, often marking the wrong way into a one-way street.
Q15Temporary signs at roadworks usually have a:
Roadworks and temporary signs use a yellow background to stand out. Obey them just like permanent signs.
Ready for the real thing?
Mix this topic with all the others in a full, timed mock test.