U.S. Route sign
What does it mean?
The black-and-white shield identifies a route in the U.S. numbered highway system. It helps you follow a route through changing roads or towns but does not state a speed limit or guarantee freeway conditions.
What to do when you see it
- Match the shield's number to your route.
- Read direction and junction plaques before turning.
- Continue to obey the speed limits and traffic controls along the route.
How to recognize it
- Distinctive white highway shield with a black outline.
- Large black route number.
- This illustration shows route 60.
On the road
You are following U.S. 60 through a town and reach a signed junction. Use the route shield and arrow to stay on the route while observing the town's posted speed limit.
Don’t confuse it with
Interstate Route sign
The Interstate shield is red, white and blue and includes INTERSTATE.
Speed Limit sign
The number inside a route shield names a highway; SPEED LIMIT identifies a regulatory speed.
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.