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Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) arrows logo
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The Shape - and Color - Give Us a Sign

Traffic signs of safety are all around us. We depend on their distinctive shapes and colors to warn us of changes or hazards in the road; tell us where and when to park; alert us to the Nation's natural, cultural, and recreational sites; and get us to our destinations safely.

What's Your Sign IQ? Take the Following Quiz and See.

Each sign type communicates its message through shape and color.


Sign Types
Regulatory Warning Guide Motorist Service Construction Recreation/ Cultural Interest

Select a sign shape and match it with the correct color.

circle shape

white color square

crossbuck shape blue color square
diamond shape brown color square
octagon shape fluorescent yellow-green color square
pennant shape green color square
pentagon shape orange color square
rectangle/square shape red color square
shield shape yellow color square
triangle shape  

Click here to view signs of all shapes and colors