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DMV Permit · Regulatory Signs

A square or rectangular white sign with black text typically indicates:

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Correct answer

A regulatory sign — a rule you must obey, such as speed limit, no parking, or one-way

  1. A A regulatory sign — a rule you must obey, such as speed limit, no parking, or one-way
  2. B A construction zone
  3. C A warning of hazard ahead
  4. D A guide sign with destination information

Why this is the answer

Black-on-white rectangular signs are regulatory: they communicate rules drivers must obey. Examples include speed limits, no parking, one-way arrows, do not enter, no turn on red, and lane use restrictions. Disobeying a regulatory sign is a traffic violation. Warning signs are typically yellow diamond-shaped; guide signs are usually green (route information), blue (services), or brown (recreational and cultural). Construction signs are orange. Color and shape carry meaning, so a driver should be able to identify the category of sign at a glance even without reading the specific text. The MUTCD specifies these standards so signs work consistently across all 50 states.
Source: MUTCD Section 2A Sign Color and Shape

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About this topic: Regulatory Signs

Black-on-white rectangular signs and special-shape signs (stop, yield, do-not-enter) all impose rules you must obey. Knowing the shapes lets you recognize them at a glance. This is one of 20 Road Signs questions on regulatory signs, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

New to this exam? Our DMV Permit exam guide explains the format, scoring, and how to prepare.

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State-specific guides

Need information for your state? Our state guides cover local requirements, fees, and what to expect on exam day.

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Recommended study materials

Study guide

DMV Permit Test Study Guide (Learner Editions)

State-by-state driver's license and learner's permit prep, road signs, and rules of the road in plain language.

Check Price → Study guide

Road Rules & Signs Workbook (Exambusters)

Targeted flashcard-style review of road signs, right-of-way rules, and speed limits for all 50 states.

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Prepare for the Learner's Permit Test (Sterling)

Practice questions and explanations for teen and adult first-time driver license test takers.

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