CDL Traffic Signs

Every sign you can expect to see on the CDL written exam, grouped by category. Recognizing these signs quickly is key to passing — especially the regulatory and warning signs that carry legal weight on the road.

Reference material for CDL exam preparation. Always follow the signs and signals you encounter on the road — they override anything on this page.

Complete List of CDL Traffic Signs (Quick Reference)

Every sign category on the CDL written exam with meanings, grouped below.

⛔ Regulatory Signs (8 signs)

  • Stop: Come to a complete stop at the limit line or crosswalk. Yield to all traffic and pedestrians.
  • Yield: Slow down and be ready to stop. Give the right-of-way to vehicles and pedestrians.
  • Do Not Enter: You may not enter this roadway from this direction. Posted at one-way street exits and ramps.
  • Wrong Way: You are traveling against traffic on a one-way road. Pull over safely and turn around immediately.
  • Speed Limit: The maximum legal speed in miles per hour under normal conditions.
  • No U-Turn: Turning around (a U-turn) is prohibited at this location.
  • No Parking: Parking is not allowed at any time in the marked area.
  • One Way: Traffic on this road flows only in the direction of the arrow.

⚠️ Warning Signs (10 signs)

  • Curve Ahead: The road curves in the direction shown. Slow down before entering the curve.
  • Slippery When Wet: The road becomes especially slippery in wet conditions. Reduce speed and avoid sudden braking.
  • School Zone / Crossing: Children may be crossing. Slow down and obey the posted speed limit. Fluorescent yellow-green.
  • Pedestrian Crossing: A place where pedestrians may cross the road. Yield to people in the crosswalk.
  • Railroad Crossing (Advance): A railroad crossing is ahead. Be prepared to stop — large trucks should shift down well in advance.
  • Steep Grade Ahead: A steep hill is ahead. Trucks: use lower gear and check brakes before descending.
  • Narrow Bridge: The bridge ahead is narrower than the road. Reduce speed and be alert for oncoming traffic.
  • Merge: Another lane is joining your road. Adjust speed and position to allow merging traffic.
  • Falling Rocks: Rocks may fall onto the road. Be alert and reduce speed in mountainous areas.
  • Deer Crossing: Wild animals may cross the road, especially at dawn and dusk. Be ready to stop.

🧭 Guide Signs (8 signs)

  • Interstate Route Marker: Identifies an Interstate highway. Blue and red shield shape with the route number.
  • Highway Exit: Shows an upcoming exit, the route number, and the distance to the exit.
  • Mile Marker: Identifies your location on the highway to aid in reporting emergencies or breakdowns.
  • Hospital / Services: Blue signs indicate nearby services such as hospitals, fuel, food, and lodging.
  • Recreation Area: Brown signs point to parks, scenic areas, or other recreational destinations.
  • Truck Route: Directs commercial vehicles to the designated truck route.
  • Weigh Station: Commercial vehicles must enter the weigh station ahead, even if the scales are closed.
  • Rest Area: A designated area where drivers may stop to rest. Required rest breaks prevent fatigue.

🚧 Work Zone & Construction Signs (4 signs)

  • Road Work Ahead: Construction work is happening ahead. Orange background. Slow down and be alert.
  • Flag Person Ahead: A flagger is controlling traffic ahead. Follow their hand signals and stop when directed.
  • Detour: A temporary route that bypasses a closed or blocked section of road.
  • Lane Closed Ahead: A lane is closing ahead. Merge to the open lane in advance and maintain safe spacing.
JM

Reviewed by Jack Mahana, CDL Instructor (13+ years)

Last verified: August 2026 · FMCSA-compliant content