No U-Turn Sign
The no U-turn sign is a white square regulatory sign featuring a black U-turn arrow inside a red circle with a red diagonal slash through it. This sign means you are prohibited from making a U-turn at the intersection or location where it's posted. A U-turn is when you turn your vehicle 180 degrees to go back the direction you came from. Cities and states post no U-turn signs at locations where making a U-turn would be dangerous — such as near hills, curves, heavy traffic areas, or where there isn't enough road width to complete the turn safely. The sign may also be posted where U-turns would disrupt traffic flow. Even where no sign is posted, U-turns may still be illegal in certain situations — for example, most states prohibit U-turns on curves, near hilltops, at railroad crossings, and on divided highways where you would need to cross a median. When you need to reverse direction and see a no U-turn sign, continue to the next intersection or find an alternative route. Never make an illegal U-turn — it puts you directly in the path of oncoming traffic.
Rules & What to Do
Do not make a U-turn where this sign is posted. Continue to the next intersection or find an alternate route. Even without a sign, U-turns are prohibited on curves, near hills, and anywhere you can't see 500 feet in each direction in many states.
Penalties
Making an illegal U-turn typically results in a fine of $100-$300 and 2-3 points on your driving record. If the U-turn causes an accident, penalties increase significantly and you may be found at fault.
For Commercial Drivers
CDL drivers should generally avoid U-turns altogether, as commercial vehicles require far more space to complete a 180-degree turn and can block multiple lanes during the maneuver. Many commercial vehicles cannot safely complete a U-turn on standard-width roads. Check local regulations, as some jurisdictions specifically prohibit U-turns by commercial vehicles regardless of signage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the no U-turn sign mean?
The no U-turn sign means you cannot make a 180-degree turn to go back the way you came at that location. You must continue forward and find another way to reverse your direction.
Can you make a U-turn if there is no sign?
Even without a no U-turn sign, U-turns may be illegal depending on your state's laws. Most states prohibit U-turns on curves, near hilltops, near intersections with limited visibility, and on highways. Check your state's specific rules.
What does the U-turn sign with a red line through it mean?
A U-turn arrow with a red circle and red slash through it is the no U-turn sign — it prohibits making a U-turn at that location. It's a regulatory sign, meaning it's legally enforceable.