Regulatory Signs:

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The eight-sided (or octagonal) sign is the stop sign. The word “STOP” is printed in white on a red background. The octagonal shape is used for stop signs only. The stop sign is usually posted six to 50 feet from the intersection. When you approach this sign, the law requires you to come to a FULL stop. Do not proceed to move again until you are sure the way is clear.

When a stop sign, stoplight, flashing light, or other traffic-control device requires a vehicle to stop at an intersection, the driver must stop at the appropriately marked stop line. If there is no stop line or marked crosswalk, the driver must stop before entering the intersection where he/she has a view of the intersecting street.

Rectangular and square–shaped signs, which are normally black and white or red and white, are also used to show speed limits and other regulations. These signs will also have messages such as "NO U-TURN" or "KEEP RIGHT EXCEPT TO PASS." Failure to obey these signs is unsafe as well as a violation of the traffic laws.

The handicapped parking sign indicates that a space is reserved for persons who qualify for a handicapped license plate or a dashboard placard.

Warning Signs:

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The pennant–shaped yellow warning sign emphasizes, rather than replaces, the rectangular regulatory "DO NOT PASS" sign. The pennant is located on the left side of the road and points to the beginning of the no-passing zone (solid yellow line in your lane).

Diamond–shaped signs are also caution or warning signs. They are normally black on yellow, but when they are black on orange, they warn of conditions for construction or maintenance areas. When you see one of these signs, drive with extra care. One of the most important caution signs is the "STOP AHEAD" sign. It is placed far ahead of a stop sign when the driver’s view of the stop sign is blocked by a curve or other objects.

Diamond–shaped caution or warning signs that are orange with black messages warn about construction or maintenance areas. Highway work zones are covered in more detail in Chapter 3 - Your Driving Privilege.

Samples of caution or warning signs:

A circular sign, with a black cross and the black letters "RR" on a yellow background, gives advance warning of a railroad crossing. When you see this sign, slow down. Stop if necessary to be sure you can safely clear the crossing.

At the railroad crossing itself is the railroad crossing crossbuck sign. The words "RAILROAD CROSSING" are printed in black on the white crosspieces. If there are multiple tracks at the crossing, they are shown on a sign below the crossbuck. You must stop at a railroad crossing whenever a flagman, signal or gate indicates an approaching train. You must remain stopped until the gate lifts or the signal or flagman indicates that it is safe to proceed. Take the time to check twice in each direction before crossing a railroad track.

The five-sided (or pentagon) sign warns of a school zone or a school crossing. You should be especially watchful for children in these areas. In many school zones, the speed limit is reduced during certain school hours.

Guide/Informational Signs:

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Guide/informational signs give directions, routes, distances and indicate services.

Interstate, U.S. and N.C. highways are numbered and marked.

Odd-numbered highways generally run north and south, and even-numbered highways generally run east and west.

	Route markers for U.S. highways are in the shape of a shield.
	North Carolina route markers are diamond shaped.
	N.C. secondary road signs are rectangular in shape.
	Interstate highways are marked by a red, white and blue shield.
	Signs indicating a nearby hospital, highway patrol station or telephone are blue and white.

Guide signs, also rectangular in shape, may be green, brown or blue. They provide directions and distances. If you are lost, a mileage and directional sign can help you.

Do not endanger other drivers by stopping in the middle of the road to read a sign. Move to the shoulder of the road and wait until you have figured out where you are and which route you should take.