Sign colors — Indiana Permit Test

A red sign states a traffic rule that requires you to take action at once, such as a Wrong Way sign.

Red is kept for the few signs where stopping or turning back right away prevents a crash.

Red traffic signs convey traffic regulations that require drivers to take immediate action to avoid threats to traffic safety.

Yellow signs warn of road conditions and hazards ahead, such as a Slippery When Wet sign.

Yellow gives you early notice so you can slow down before you reach the hazard.

Yellow or fluorescent yellow-green signs prepare drivers for specific road conditions and hazards ahead, and alert drivers to nearby school zones.

Fluorescent yellow-green signs warn of nearby schools, pedestrians, bicycles, playgrounds and school bus routes.

The bright color stands out so drivers notice where children and people on foot may be.

Fluorescent yellow-green signs warn drivers of nearby schools, pedestrians, bicycles, playgrounds, and school bus routes.

White signs show traffic rules you must obey, such as speed limits, and helpful information like state highway markers.

A white sign is not advice. Most of what it says is a rule you can be ticketed for breaking.

White Traffic signs display traffic regulations, such as speed limits, that drivers must obey, as well as helpful information such as state highway markers.

Orange signs warn of temporary conditions, usually construction and maintenance work.

Orange tells you the road ahead is not as it usually is, and that workers may be close by.

Orange traffic signs warn drivers of temporary traffic conditions.

Blue signs show road services and information, such as amenities at an upcoming exit.

Blue signs tell you where to find food, fuel, lodging or a hospital.

Blue traffic signs display road services and information.

Brown signs point to nearby recreation and cultural sites, such as a state park.

Brown signs lead you to parks and places of interest, not to rules or hazards.

Brown traffic signs indicate nearby recreational and cultural interest sites.

What does a red background on a traffic sign tell you?

A rule that needs immediate action. Red is kept for the few signs where stopping or turning back right away prevents a crash. Indiana Driver's Manual, p.27: “Red traffic signs convey traffic regulations that require drivers to take immediate action to avoid threats to traffic safety.”