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Traffic signs remain the most effective method of communicating to all road users what they need to know to complete their journey safely, efficiently and within the law.
- Signs giving orders. Signs with red circles are mostly prohibitive. Plates below signs qualify their message. Signs with blue circles but no red border mostly give positive instruction.
- Warning signs. Mostly triangular. The priority through route is indicated by the broader line. Gradients may be shown as a ratio i.e. 20% = 1:5.
- Direction signs. Mostly rectangular. Signs on motorways - blue backgrounds. Signs on primary routes - green backgrounds. Blue panels indicate that the motorway starts at the junction ahead.
- Information signs. All rectangular. Lane designated for use by high occupancy vehicles (HOV) - see rule 142.
- Stop Signs. Stop signs are a universal symbol of road safety, recognised across the world by their octagonal shape and vibrant red background. In the UK, they play a crucial role in keeping drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians safe on the roads.
- Speed Limit Signs. Speed limit signs are an important part of road safety in the UK. They are circular in shape with a red outer ring and a number in the centre, indicating the maximum speed limit for that road.
- No Entry Signs. No entry signs are a crucial part of road safety in the UK. They are easily recognisable with their red circular shape and white horizontal bar, and they indicate that you cannot enter the road or path.
- One-Way Signs. One-way signs are an important part of road safety in the UK. They are rectangular in shape with an arrow pointing in the direction of traffic flow, indicating that traffic can only flow in one direction.
Learn what the different sign shapes mean and you'll be able to react more quickly to signals on the road: Circle Signs. Circles are signs giving orders. They're split into red and blue signs. Red signs tell you something you shouldn't do, like exceeding a speed limit or overtaking.
Signs on non-primary and local routes - black borders Green panels indicate that the primary route starts at the junction ahead. Route numbers on a blue background show the direction to a...
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This in-depth guide covers every road sign, marking, and symbol new drivers need to know, with illustrations and tips for remembering their meanings.
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The general rule is: Circular road signs: Circular signs give orders - they must be followed to stay within the law. Circles with a red border tell you what you must not do (e.g. take a U-turn). Blue circles usually give a positive instruction, such as ‘turn left ahead’. Triangular road signs: Triangular signs warn.
