School Crossing Sign
What does it mean?
The school symbol with a downward-pointing arrow identifies the location of a school crossing. An AHEAD or distance plaque would instead warn that the crossing is farther along the road.
What to do when you see it
- Look for children entering or already using the crossing.
- Stop or yield as the situation and applicable crossing rules require.
- Follow the crossing guard's directions and keep the crosswalk clear.
How to recognize it
- Five-sided school sign showing two people.
- A separate plaque has a diagonal arrow pointing down toward the crossing.
On the road
The school sign's arrow points down toward a marked crosswalk at the next curb. You focus on that crossing and stop behind the line when a guard directs traffic to stop.
Don’t confuse it with
School area
A school symbol without this downward arrow can mark the school area or zone rather than the exact crossing.
Pedestrian crossing warning
The school assembly has a five-sided two-person symbol; the ordinary pedestrian warning is a diamond.
Put the meaning into practice
The related quiz includes this sign and other study questions. State practice can also cover local rules; it is not an official DMV exam.
Common U.S. sign recognition, reviewed October 3, 2026. Actual sign values, additional plaques and local rules can change how you should respond.