
Traffic and Road Signs in the Philippines: A Complete Guide for Drivers
If you’re a first-time driver, preparing for the LTO exam, or just looking to become a safer road user.
According to the World Health Organization, the Philippines records over 12,000 road-related deaths annually many of which are caused by failure to obey traffic signs.
Traffic signs aren’t just rules they are lifesaving tools that help maintain order and prevent accidents. This guide will make learning traffic signs easy, engaging, and unforgettable.
Let’s dive in! 🚗💨
All Traffic and Road Signs in the Philippines
Why Traffic and Road Signs Matter in the Philippines
Traffic congestion and road accidents are common in the Philippines, often caused by drivers who ignore or misunderstand road signs. The Land Transportation Office (LTO) enforces traffic and road signs to regulate the flow of vehicles and ensure public safety.
Whether you’re preparing for the LTO driving exam or simply want to avoid traffic violations, understanding these signs is essential. This guide covers the different types of road signs in the Philippines, their meanings, and the penalties for non-compliance.
Types of Traffic and Road Signs in the Philippines
The LTO classifies road signs into eight different categories:
- Regulatory Signs – Indicate traffic laws and rules that must be followed.
- Warning Signs – Alert drivers to potential hazards ahead.
- Guide/Informative Signs – Provide useful directions and information for navigation.
- Signs on Expressways – Provide important information such as exits, distances, and special regulations to help drivers navigate high-speed roads safely.
- Traffic Instruction Signs – Offer specific guidance on road usage, including lane usage, turning restrictions, and parking regulations.
- Hazard Markers – Indicate physical obstructions or changes in road conditions, helping drivers navigate safely around potential dangers.
- Road Work Signs – Warn drivers of construction zones, temporary detours, and changing road conditions to ensure safety for both workers and motorists.
- Pavement Markings – Painted lines and symbols on the road surface that regulate traffic flow, indicate lanes, and provide important guidance for drivers.
Ignoring these signs can lead to fines, accidents, or even license suspension.
1 Regulatory Signs
These signs tell you what you must do or must not do while driving. Ignoring them can result in penalties, fines, or accidents.
There are six different types of regulatory traffic signs and they are as follows:
1.1. Priority Signs
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Stop Sign This sign requires the driver to stop at a designated stop line. They are also not allowed to park within 6 meters of the stop line. |
![]() | Give Way Sign With this sign, drivers are expected to yield to the vehicles on the right side of the intersection. |
![]() | Left Turner Must Give Way When turning left at intersections, you can only have the right of way if you use your turn signal at least 30 meters before reaching the intersection. If there are cars arriving or already too close to the intersection, yield, give allowance, or make a full stop and let them pass. |
1.2. Direction Signs
Directional signs indicate the only allowed route that drivers must follow. These signs typically feature white arrows on a blue circular background, often accompanied by a rectangular label for added clarity.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Pass either side |
![]() | No turns |
![]() | One Way |
![]() | Keep right |
![]() | Keep left |
![]() | All traffic must turn right |
![]() | All traffic must turn left |
![]() | Merging traffic |
![]() | Two-way traffic |
![]() | Salubong na trapiko |
![]() | Right lane must turn right |
![]() | Left lane must turn left |
1.3. Prohibitive & Restrictive Signs
Prohibitive or restrictive signs indicate actions that are not allowed on certain roads. These signs guide both motorists and pedestrians by specifying forbidden directions or movements. Easily recognizable by a red circle with a slash, they help prevent violations and ensure smooth traffic flow.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | No entry for all vehicles |
![]() | No entry for cars |
![]() | No entry for jeepneys |
![]() | No entry for buses |
![]() | No entry for trucks |
![]() | No entry for bicycles |
![]() | No entry for motorcycles |
![]() | No entry for tricycles |
![]() | No entry for vehicles with trailer |
![]() | No entry for animal-drawn vehicles |
![]() | No entry for pushcarts |
![]() | No pedestrian crossing Pedestrians are not allowed to cross the road. |
![]() | Use Overpass Pedestrians must use an overpass. |
![]() | Use Ped Xing Pedestrians must use a pedestrian crossing. |
![]() | No Right Turn Vehicles are not allowed to turn right. |
![]() | No Left Turn Vehicles are not allowed to turn left. |
![]() | No U-Turn Vehicles are not allowed to make a U-turn. |
![]() | No Overtaking Zone |
1.4. Speed Limit Signs
These signs indicate the minimum or maximum speed drivers must follow on a specific road or highway, ensuring safe and regulated traffic flow.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Maximum speed restriction |
![]() | End of maximum speed restriction |
![]() | Speed limit derestriction |
![]() | Minimum speed restriction |
1.5. Parking and Stopping Signs
These signs inform drivers where stopping or parking is allowed, whether briefly or for extended periods. They indicate if a vehicle can pause with or without a driver, as well as designated areas for loading or unloading passengers for at least three minutes, provided it does not obstruct traffic flow.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Allowable parking and loading zone at a given time and place Loading zone, xx:xx AM – xx:xx PM |
![]() | 2P Time restricted parking |
![]() | Loading and unloading zone |
![]() | No waiting anytime |
![]() | Bawal maghintay ano mang oras (No waiting anytime) |
![]() | No loading and unloading anytime |
![]() | Bawal magsakay at magbaba (No loading and unloading) |
![]() | Do not block intersection |
![]() | No Parking |
![]() | No Parking: Bawal Pumarada |
![]() | No Parking: Tow-away Zone Parked vehicle will be towed. |
![]() | No Parking Anytime from Monday-Friday |
![]() | Right Turner Cross at Broken Lines Vehicles from the left lane may cross the broken line to turn right within the BUS/PUJ zone. |
![]() | No Stopping Anytime |
![]() | No parking, public utility bus stop (Bus Stop Zone) |
![]() | No parking, public utility jeepney stop (PUJ Stop Zone) |
1.6. Miscellaneous Signs
This category includes various other signs that provide important roadway information and guidance for drivers.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | No entry for vehicles with more than 2 meters of width |
![]() | No entry for vehicles with 3.5 meters in height |
![]() | No entry for vehicles with more than 10 meters in length |
![]() | No entry for vehicles with gross vehicle mass of more than 5 tons |
![]() | No entry for vehicles with gross axle load of more 2 tons |
![]() | Use Seat Belt sign |
![]() | No Blowing of Horns |
![]() | Be aware of pedestrian crossing |
![]() | Be aware of school children crossing |
![]() | Bicycle lane ahead |
![]() | Be aware of Persons with Disabilities (PWD) crossing |
2. Warning Signs
Warning signs are typically yellow with black symbols or text, designed to alert drivers about potential hazards ahead. These signs help prevent accidents by giving advance notice of road conditions that require caution.
2.1. Horizontal Signs
Horizontal signs warn drivers about upcoming road curves to help them navigate safely. These signs are typically white with red-bordered triangles and feature black symbols that indicate the specific type of curve or turn ahead.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Sharp turn (right) |
![]() | Sharp turn (left) |
![]() | Reverse turn (right) |
![]() | Reverse turn (left) |
![]() | Curve (right) |
![]() | Curve (left) |
![]() | Reverse curve (right) |
![]() | Reverse curve (left) |
![]() | Winding road (right) |
![]() | Winding road (left) |
![]() | Hairpin bend (right) |
![]() | Hairpin bend (left) |
2.2. Intersection Signs
These signs appear near intersections, junctions, or roundabouts, warning drivers of merging traffic and the need for caution.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Intersection ahead |
![]() | Staggered intersection (right) |
![]() | Staggered intersection (left) |
![]() | Skewed intersection (right) |
![]() | Skewed intersection (left) |
![]() | T-Junction ahead |
![]() | Y-Junction ahead |
![]() | Half Y-Junction (right) |
![]() | Half Y-Junction (left) |
![]() | Half Y-Junction behind (right) |
![]() | Half Y-Junction behind (left) |
![]() | Side road junction ahead (right) |
![]() | Side road junction ahead (left) |
![]() | Roundabout ahead |
![]() | Approach to intersection |
![]() | Approach to intersection side road (right) |
![]() | Approach to intersection side road (left) |
![]() | Approach to Intersection merging traffic (right) |
![]() | Approach to Intersection merging traffic (left) |
2.3. Advance Warning and Traffic Control Device Signs
These signs function similarly to regulatory signs but are placed before intersections or junctions to alert drivers about upcoming traffic conditions or changes in road rules.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Traffic Lights Ahead Driver must not park or stop within six (6) meters of this sign as it reduces visibility for other drivers. |
![]() | Stop Sign Ahead |
![]() | Give Way Sign Ahead |
2.4. Road Width Signs
These signs alert drivers to upcoming changes in road width, whether the lane is narrowing or expanding, allowing them to adjust their speed and positioning accordingly.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Road narrows |
![]() | Road narrows ahead |
![]() | Narrow bridge |
![]() | Narrow bridge ahead |
![]() | Start of divided traffic |
![]() | End of divided traffic 2-way road ahead |
2.5. Road Obstacle Signs: Navigating Potential Hazards
Road obstacle signs alert drivers to possible dangers or disruptions that could affect their route. These may include animal crossings, low-flying aircraft, landslides, floods, or other unexpected obstacles that require extra caution while driving.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Opening bridge |
![]() | Uneven road |
![]() | Hump |
![]() | Steep descent (right) |
![]() | Steep descent (left) |
![]() | Downhill sign with warning for trucks |
![]() | Steep climb (right) |
![]() | Steep climb (left) |
![]() | Spill way sign |
![]() | Flood-prone area |
![]() | Falling debris (right) |
![]() | Falling debris (left) |
![]() | Slippery when wet |
![]() | Slippery road (Mag-ingat madulas ang kalsada) |
![]() | Animal crossing ahead |
![]() | Low-flying airplane zone |
2.6. Pedestrian Signs
Pedestrian signs vary in shape but are typically yellow to signal caution. They indicate areas where pedestrians, children, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and cyclists are commonly present. Drivers should reduce speed and stay alert, as pedestrian lanes may be nearby.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Slow down, pedestrian crossing ahead |
![]() | Pedestrian Crossing Ahead |
![]() | Be aware and stop for children crossing ahead |
![]() | Be aware of and stop for children crossing ahead near school |
![]() | Be aware and stop for Persons with Disabilities ahead |
![]() | Advice to pedestrian to cross at designated areas |
![]() | Be aware and slowdown on bike lane ahead |
2.7. Railway Level Crossing Signs
Railway level crossing signs warn drivers of an approaching railroad track where trains may pass. These signs help prevent accidents by reminding motorists to slow down, look both ways, and yield to trains before crossing. Ignoring these warnings can lead to serious collisions, so always stay alert and follow the signals when near railway tracks.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Railroad crossing vehicles must stop or give the right of way |
![]() | Railroad crossing advance warning (signaled) |
![]() | Railroad crossing advance warning (unsignaled) |
![]() | Alternative railway crossing position in an area that can be easily seen |
2.8. Supplementary Signs
Supplementary signs provide extra details to help drivers interpret warning, regulatory, or guide signs more effectively. These signs often clarify specific conditions, distances, or special considerations for certain road users.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Advisory speed |
![]() | Indicates the distance from the hazard |
![]() | When wet (usually combined with the Slippery Road warning sign) |
![]() | For Blind persons |
![]() | Signs of PWDs |
![]() | Signs of senior citizens |
![]() | Signs of schools |
![]() | Signs of playground |
2.9 Other Warning Signs
This category includes additional warning signs that alert drivers to specific road conditions and potential hazards. These signs help prevent accidents by ensuring motorists adjust their driving behavior accordingly.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Maximum height of a vehicle must be 4.8 to 5.5 meters |
![]() | Maximum height of a vehicle must be 4.8 meters or less |
![]() | Slow down, accident-prone area |
![]() | Bumagal madalas ang aksidente dito |
![]() | Merging traffic ahead |
![]() | Lane ends, merge left |
![]() | Weighbridge Ahead |
3. Guide/Informative Signs
Guide and informative signs provide essential navigation assistance, such as directions, distances, street names, and points of interest. They are usually green, blue, or brown, making travel easier and more efficient.
3.1. Advance Direction Signs
Commonly seen on national highways, these signs guide drivers toward specific destinations, such as provinces or major cities, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Stack direction sign (multiple destinations) |
![]() | Stack direction sign (single destinations) |
![]() | Stack direction sign (with road/street name) |
![]() | Diagrammatic direction sign |
![]() | Diagrammatic direction sign (for roundabout/rotunda junction) |
3.2. Intersection Direction Signs
These signs appear at least one kilometer before an intersection, guiding drivers toward the correct route when traveling to a specific province.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Intersection direction sign (right-facing) |
![]() | Intersection direction sign (left-facing) |
![]() | Intersection direction sign (left and right-facing) |
![]() | Intersection direction sign with route number and road name |
3.3. Reassurance Direction Signs
These signs inform drivers of the remaining distance, in meters or kilometers, to a specific city, province, or highway exit, helping with navigation and route planning.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Reassurance direction sign |
![]() | Reassurance direction sign with route number and road name |
3.4. Fingerboard & Directional Signs
These signs provide precise guidance by pointing drivers toward tourist attractions, towns, or key landmarks, ensuring smooth navigation.
Sign Image |
---|
![]() |
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3.4. Street Name Signs
Street name signs help drivers and pedestrians identify their current location or the road they are about to enter or exit. These signs are essential for navigation, ensuring smooth and efficient travel.

3.5. Town Names & Geographical Feature Signs
These signs inform drivers of the town they are entering, exiting, or currently in. They may also highlight significant geographical features along the route.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Town name |
![]() | Province name |
![]() | Geographical feature |
![]() | Local government unit boundary |
3.7 Service Signs
Service signs help drivers identify nearby essential facilities such as hospitals, restaurants, gas stations, and rest areas. These signs are typically blue with white symbols, making them easy to recognize while on the road.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Service sign (with name of service, symbols, and distance) |
![]() | Service sign (advance sign with name of service) |
![]() | Weighbridge station |
![]() | Hospital |
![]() | First aid ambulance hospital |
![]() | Telephone |
![]() | Gasoline station |
![]() | Parking area |
![]() | Accommodation hotel, motel |
![]() | Caravan site |
![]() | Camping area |
![]() | Information center |
![]() | Refreshment |
![]() | Restaurant, cafes |
![]() | Rest area, picnic ground |
![]() | Airport |
![]() | Truck parking |
![]() | Rest rooms |
![]() | Disabled service |
![]() | Litter bin |
3.8. Tourist Information & Destination Signs
Tourist information and destination signs guide travelers to historical landmarks, scenic spots, and cultural sites across the Philippines. These signs help visitors easily locate key attractions and must-see destinations.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Fort Santiago A historic site in Intramuros, Manila. |
![]() | Taal Lake A famous scenic spot with a breathtaking view of Taal Volcano. |
![]() | National Museum Showcases the country’s rich history and cultural heritage. |
![]() | Scenic Lookout Indicates a designated viewpoint for panoramic landscapes. |
3.9. Route Markers
Route markers are white, circular signs featuring black numbers or arrows. They indicate the specific arterial road and provide information on distance and direction to key destinations.
In the Philippines, distance is measured from Zero Kilometer Post in each Province which should be somewhere near the Provincial Building. In Luzon, distance is measured between each Provincial Zero KM Post and the Zero Kilometer Post is in Luneta Park, Manila.
Sign Image |
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![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
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3.10. Asian Highway Route Markers (AH26)
The Asian Highway Route Markers help identify major arterial roads that are part of the Asian Highway Network. In the Philippines, the designated route number is AH26, signifying its importance as a key through route for regional connectivity.
Additionally, advance directional signs with route marker shields guide motorists along these highways, ensuring smooth navigation.



4. Signs on Expressways
Expressway signs are designed to help drivers navigate high-speed roads safely by providing exit information, speed limits, toll details, and special regulations. These signs are crucial for maintaining smooth traffic flow.
4.1. Expressway Approach Signs
These signs are placed near intersections or interchanges to alert drivers of an upcoming expressway entrance.

4.2. Expressway Information Signs
Expressway information signs help drivers navigate highways safely by providing essential details about toll fees, lane directions, and expressway restrictions. These signs ensure smooth traffic flow and prevent confusion on high-speed roads.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Toll charges This sign informs motorists of the amount of toll charges required to pay at the toll plaza. |
![]() | Prohibited on expressway These signs offers advance information that prohibits traveling on expressways. |
![]() | Lane direction signs These signs guide motorists into the correct lanes leading to an intersection or an interchange. |
3.3. Advance Exit Signs
These signs are positioned before an exit toll to inform drivers in advance, allowing them to prepare for a safe and timely lane change.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Exit advance sign (with distance) |
![]() | Exit advance sign (with distance and “Right Lane”) |
![]() | Supplementary exit advance sign (“Next Exit”) |
4.4. Expressway Exit Direction Signs
These signs are placed overhead near exit ramps on expressways, guiding drivers toward the correct interchange for a smooth and safe exit.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Exit direction sign (placed overhead in advance of the exit ramp) |
![]() | Next exit XX km |
![]() | Exit direction sign |
![]() | Exit direction sign (for numbered exits) |
4.5. Expressway Service Signs
These signs indicate essential services available along or near expressways, such as rest areas, gas stations, and emergency assistance points, helping drivers plan their stops efficiently.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Distance and Direction to Rest Areas |
![]() | Distance and Direction to Various Expressway Services |
4.6. Start and End of Expressway Signs
These signs mark the entry and exit points of an expressway, helping drivers transition smoothly between regular roads and high-speed routes.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Start Expressway |
![]() | End Expressway |
![]() | End Expressway after xx km |
4.7. Toll signs
Toll signs inform drivers about upcoming toll booths, distances to toll gates, and required payment methods.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Toll Plaza Ahead (with distance) |
![]() | Stop at Toll Gates |
![]() | Pay Toll Ahead |
4.8. Expressway Traffic Instruction & Regulatory Signs
These specialized signs are found exclusively on expressways, typically positioned around 200 meters before toll exits to guide drivers on upcoming regulations and road conditions.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Wrong way, go back |
![]() | Reduce speed now |
![]() | Reduce speed now, Check Breaks |
![]() | Right lane ends |
![]() | Right lane ends, merge left |
![]() | Lane ends, merge left |
5. Traffic Instruction Signs
Traffic instruction signs provide specific guidance on how roads should be used, such as lane designations, turn restrictions, and parking regulations. They ensure order and safety in complex traffic situations.
5.1. Supplementary Signs
These signs offer specific directions to help regulate movement and improve road safety for all.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Use Overpass |
![]() | Use Pedestrian Crossing |
![]() | Trucks Use Low Gear |
![]() | Check brakes |
5.2. Movement Instruction Signs
Movement instruction signs guide drivers on how to navigate the road safely in different conditions.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Reduce Speed |
![]() | Stop here on red signal |
![]() | Low clearance ahead, high vehicles detour |
![]() | No right turn on red signal |
![]() | Slow vehicles use right lane |
![]() | Mabagal na sasakyan mamalagi sa kanan |
![]() | Trak at bus mamalagi sa kanan maliban kung lulusot. Trucks and buses keep right unless overtaking. |
![]() | No through road |
![]() | Road Closed |
6. Hazard Markers
Hazard markers are used to indicate fixed objects, curves, dips, or other road conditions that may pose a risk to drivers. They help motorists navigate safely by highlighting potential dangers.
All Hazard Markers and Their Meanings
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | One-way hazard markers Indicate the direction to be followed at the end of the road. |
![]() | Obstruction markers Indicates road closure ahead. |
![]() | Two-way hazard markers Warning that the road ahead is about to change direction. |
![]() | Two-way hazard markers Usually used on two-way traffic obstructions or accompany a pass either side sign. |
![]() | Width markers (left) Narrowing vehicle width clearance usually used on approaches of narrow bridges or mounted below a keep left sign on traffic islands where the road narrows |
![]() | Width markers (right) Narrowing vehicle width clearance usually used on approaches of narrow bridges or mounted below a keep right sign on traffic islands where the road narrows |
7. Road Work Signs
Road work signs warn drivers about construction zones, detours, and temporary road conditions. These signs help reduce accidents and ensure the safety of both road workers and motorists.
All Road Work Signs and Their Meanings
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Two-way Traffic Road When you see this sign, prepare for two-way traffic on the road. Be cautious and stay in your lane to avoid oncoming vehicles. |
![]() | Traffic Lights This sign indicates that there are traffic lights ahead. Be prepared to stop or proceed based on the light’s signal. |
![]() | Road narrows keep left This sign recommends keeping left as the road narrows from the right. Adjust your position to avoid potential hazards. |
![]() | Road Works Ahead The sign advises drivers to be cautious of roadworks in progress. Slow down and follow any instructions from road workers or signs. |
![]() | Stop sign ahead This sign indicates that a stop sign is ahead. Be ready to come to a complete stop and check for cross traffic. |
![]() | Closed Lane This sign informs drivers that a lane is closed ahead. Merge into the open lane in advance to maintain traffic flow. |
![]() | Flagger ahead Drivers should be aware that there is a flagger ahead. Follow their signals to navigate safely through the work zone. |
8. Pavement Markings
Pavement markings are lines, symbols, and patterns painted on roads to regulate traffic flow, indicate lane divisions, and provide guidance for drivers. They play a vital role in maintaining road safety and efficiency.
8.1. Longitudinal Lines
Longitudinal lines are painted along the length of the road to separate lanes, indicate boundaries, and guide traffic movement. These markings help prevent lane encroachments and ensure smooth, organized driving.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | CENTER or SEPARATION LINE crossing of solid white lines requires special care and is discouraged |
![]() | LANE LINE changing of lane is allowed provided that it is safe and will not result to obstruction |
![]() | DOUBLE SOLID YELLOW LINES No overtaking and no crossing |
![]() | SINGLE SOLID YELLOW LINE Crossing is allowed but no overtaking |
![]() | SINGLE YELLOW LINE WITH BROKEN WHITE LINE No overtaking but crossing is allowed on the side of the solid yellow line Overtaking and crossing is allowed on the side of the broken white line |
![]() | BROKEN YELLOW LINE Crossing and overtaking is allowed with necessary precaution |
![]() | BROKEN AND SOLID YELLOW LINE Crossing and overtaking is allowed on the side of the broken line with caution but overtaking is not allowed on the side of the solid line |
![]() | EDGE LINE used to separate the outside edge of the road from the shoulder |
![]() | CONTINUITY LINE continuity line on the left side means the lane is ending or exiting and that the driver must change lanes if the driver wants to continue in the current direction. Continuity lines on the right means that the lane will continue unaffected |
![]() | TRANSITION LINES guide the traffic safely to pass obstructions on roadways such as islands, median strips, bridge piers or indicate changes in the width of the traveled portion of the roadway and an increase or reduction in traffic lanes |
8.2. Traverse Lines
Transverse lines are painted across the road and provide key instructions, such as stopping, yielding, or pedestrian crossings. These markings ensure vehicles and pedestrians interact safely, particularly at intersections.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | STOP LINE vehicles are required to stop before the white line |
![]() | GIVE WAY or HOLDING LINES markings consisting of two adjacent broken white lines across the carriageway at which drivers must give way to all traffic in accordance with the standard sign |
![]() | PEDESTRIAN INTERSECTION (SIGNALIZED) |
![]() | PEDESTRIAN INTERSECTION (NON-SIGNALIZED) |
![]() | ROUNDABOUT HOLDING LINES vehicles within the rotunda have the right-of-way over vehicles which are just about to enter |
8.3. Other Lines: Additional Roadway Indicators
Beyond longitudinal and transverse lines, various other pavement markings help manage traffic flow, improve safety, and designate specific road functions.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Parking Bay The marks mean that the designated space can be used to as parking space. |
![]() | Loading and Unloading Bay Lane Line Characterized by unbroken white lines, this mark signifies the proper location of loading and unloading zones of public utility vehicles preferably with parking restrictions. |
![]() | Do Not Block Intersection lines This pavement marks consist of a yellow box within the intersection and yellow diagonal lines forming an “X” inside the box. It means that the box should be left open to avoid obstructing other vehicles. |
![]() | Turn Line This line is used to guide vehicles turning at intersections. |
![]() | BUS AND PUJ LANE LINE a solid yellow line used to separate other vehicles from buses and PUJs and supplemented by raised pavement markers |
8.4. Object Markings
Object markings highlight physical obstacles within or near the road that could pose risks to drivers. These markings increase visibility and prevent collisions by clearly defining barriers, curbs, and roadside structures.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Traffic Cones on the Road |
![]() | Markings on Curbs |
![]() | Concrete Barriers |
8.5. Other Markings
Roads also feature various special pavement markings that convey important regulations and warnings. These markings help manage traffic flow, improve safety, and provide guidance for specific road situations.
Sign Image | Sign Meaning & Explanation |
---|---|
![]() | Cat’s Eyes Cat’s Eyes are reflective road markers embedded into the pavement to improve visibility, especially at night or in poor weather conditions. |
![]() | Curb Markings for Parking and Loading/Unloading Restrictions Curb markings are painted along the edges of sidewalks or roadways to indicate specific parking rules and loading/unloading zones. |
![]() | Approach Markings to Islands and Obstructions Approach markings are road surface indicators designed to warn and guide drivers as they approach islands, medians, or other roadway obstructions. |
![]() | Chevron markings Chevron marks are often used to guide traffic into the right turning lanes separated by an island. |
![]() | Railroad Crossing Ahead These markings alert drivers to upcoming railroad crossings, ensuring they slow down, look for approaching trains, and stop if necessary. |
![]() | Motorcycle Lanes The markings allot lanes for motorcycle riders and can be shared by other vehicles. Riders are not allowed to stay on other lanes unless instructed by enforcers or the rider is turning into an intersection. |
![]() | Bus Lane These pavement marks identify the designated lanes for buses. |
![]() | Pavement Arrows These arrows are painted on pavements for lane control and is usually in white color. |
![]() | For Bicycles Only These marks painted in the pavement using solid white lines along either side of the street signify bike lanes. |
![]() | Speed Limit at 60KPH The speed limit pavement markings are meant to supplement the speed limit posted on the road side. |
Consequences of Ignoring Traffic Signs
Failing to follow traffic signs in the Philippines doesn’t just result in fines, it endangers lives.
What Happens When You Violate Traffic Signs?
- Fines and Penalties – Violations can cost up to ₱2,000 or more.
- Increased Accident Risk – Running a red light can lead to severe collisions.
- License Suspension – Repeated offenses may result in revocation of your driver’s license.
Tip: Always check for posted signs, especially in high-traffic areas like EDSA, C5, and national highways.
How to Memorize Philippine Road Signs Easily
If you’re preparing for the LTO driving exam, these tips can help you retain road sign meanings more effectively:
- Use Flashcards – Write the sign on one side and its meaning on the other.
- Observe Signs While Driving – Reinforces learning through real-life exposure.
- Take Our Online LTO Practice Tests – Access free quizzes on our website to test your knowledge.
- Use Our LTO Exam Reviewer – Study official LTO materials and practice with our reviewer to ensure you’re prepared.
- Group Signs by Category – Learn them in regulatory, warning, and guide sections.
- Use Mnemonics – Example: “STOP” = “See The Oncoming Path.”
These strategies improve recall and ensure you’re well-prepared for the exam.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are traffic signs in the Philippines standardized nationwide?
Yes, the LTO and DPWH ensure all traffic signs follow a standardized design across the country.
What if I fail the LTO traffic sign test?
You can retake the test after reviewing the official LTO study materials.
Where can I practice for the LTO driving exam?
You can visit LTO-accredited driving schools or take free online practice tests on LTO Online Exam at LTOOnlineExam.ph. Our website offers comprehensive reviewers and quizzes to help you prepare effectively.
Final Thoughts
Traffic signs aren’t just there for decoration they save lives, prevent accidents, and keep traffic organized.
Remember:
- Follow traffic signs at all times to avoid fines and accidents.
- Practice recognizing signs daily to prepare for the LTO test.
- Be aware of sign placements while driving, especially in busy areas.
Drive smart, stay safe, and respect the road!