Study topic
UK road signs explained
Road signs make up a large portion of the theory test. Understanding the colour and shape system means you can work out the meaning of any sign -- even one you have not seen before.
Key facts to remember
- ◆ Warning signs: triangular with a red border -- alert you to a hazard ahead.
- ◆ Regulatory signs: circular -- tell you what you must or must not do.
- ◆ Red rings or circles tell you what you must NOT do; blue circles give a positive (mandatory) instruction.
- ◆ Information signs: mostly rectangular (blue for motorways, green for primary routes, white for minor roads).
- ◆ Stop sign: red octagon -- you must stop completely. Give way: inverted (downward) triangle.
Road markings work alongside signs. A solid white centre line means no overtaking; a broken line means overtaking is permitted when safe. Yellow lines at the kerb show waiting restrictions.