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The UK Road Sign System

There are three basic types of traffic sign: signs that give orders, signs that warn and signs that give information. Each type has a different shape. A further guide to the function of a sign is its colour. All triangular signs are red.

UK road signs descriptions
Warning sign, side road ahead
Mandatory keep left sign
Maximum 40 mph sign

Circles

Blue circles generally give a mandatory instruction, such as 'turn left', or indicate a route available only to particular classes of traffic, e.g. buses and cycles only

Red rings or circles tell you what you must not do , e.g. you must not exceed 40 mph, no vehicles over the height shown may proceed

Triangles

These signs are mostly triangular and warn of a hazard ahead

The priority through the junction is indicated by the wider line

Warning sign, right bend with side road to the left
Cross roads warning sign
Junction information sign
Junction information sign

Rectangles

These signs are used to give information and directions. They are mostly rectangular.

Blue rectangles are used for mandatory information signs except on motorways where blue is used for direction signs

Green rectangles are used for direction signs on primary routes

White rectangles are used for direction signs on non-primary routes, or for plates used in combination with warning and regulatory signs

Greater Importance

There are a few exceptions to the shape and colour rules, to give certain signs greater importance. Examples are the "STOP" and "GIVE WAY" signs

Give way junction sign
UK stop sign
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