Guide Sign
Guide signs are a family of rectangular signs that provide information to help drivers navigate and find destinations. The most common guide signs are green with white text and show directions to cities, highways, exits, and distances. However, guide signs come in several colors: green signs show highway directions and distances, blue signs indicate motorist services (gas, food, lodging, hospitals), and brown signs point to recreational areas, parks, and historic sites. White guide signs provide route markers and milepost information. Guide signs don't tell you what to do — they help you figure out where to go. You'll see them on highways showing upcoming exits and distances, at intersections showing which way to turn for various destinations, and at interchange ramps directing you to the correct route. Overhead guide signs on multilane highways are positioned above the lanes to show which lane leads to which destination. Reading guide signs in advance is important for safe driving — last-second lane changes because you missed a sign are a common cause of highway accidents. Plan your route by reading guide signs early and positioning yourself in the correct lane well before your exit.
Rules & What to Do
Read guide signs early and plan your moves in advance. Position yourself in the correct lane well before your exit or turn. Do not make sudden lane changes or stop on the highway if you miss your exit — continue to the next exit. Follow the color coding: green for directions, blue for services, brown for recreation.
Penalties
Guide signs carry no penalties. However, making unsafe lane changes, stopping on the highway, or backing up because you missed a sign can result in citations for reckless or careless driving with fines of $150-$500.
For Commercial Drivers
CDL drivers must read guide signs carefully to find truck routes, weigh stations, and truck-friendly services. Look for signs indicating truck stops with large vehicle parking and clearance. On unfamiliar routes, watch for signs with truck-specific information such as weight limits, height restrictions, and grade warnings. Plan lane changes early — commercial vehicles need more time and space to change lanes safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are guide signs on the road?
Guide signs are informational signs that help drivers navigate. Green signs show highway directions and distances, blue signs show services like gas and food, and brown signs indicate parks and recreation areas.
What color are highway guide signs?
The most common highway guide signs are green with white text. Blue signs indicate services (gas, food, lodging), brown signs indicate recreation and cultural sites, and white signs show route markers.
What do the blue highway signs mean?
Blue highway signs are service guide signs that show what services are available at upcoming exits — gas stations, restaurants, hotels, hospitals, and rest areas. They help you find what you need without leaving the highway unnecessarily.