Guide and Informational Signs: Route Markers, Destinations, and Services
Guide and Informational Signs
Guide signs direct you to destinations, route numbers, exits, and services. They are generally green, blue, or brown, and they are not commands. The Mississippi practice exam tests route markers, destination and distance signs, exit signs, mile markers, and service signs.
Core rules
- Route markers: Interstate routes use the red-and-blue shield; U.S. routes use the white shield; Mississippi state routes use the state route marker. The number identifies the route, not the speed or lane.
- Destinations: Green signs list cities, distances, and arrows. Overhead lane signs tell you which lane serves an exit or through route.
- Exits: Exit tabs give the exit number; advance signs give distance. A yellow EXIT ONLY panel means that lane must exit.
- Services: Blue signs show gas, food, lodging, camping, and hospitals. Brown signs show recreation and cultural attractions.
- Mile markers: Small green mileposts help you report your location in an emergency.
Worked example
You are in the right lane approaching a green overhead sign. The right lane is marked EXIT ONLY for Exit 42, and your destination is straight ahead. The EXIT ONLY panel means the lane will leave the highway, so you must change left before the solid white line begins. Waiting until the gore area is unsafe and may be illegal.
Traps
Do not confuse a route marker with a regulatory sign; it does not tell you to turn. Do not use a destination sign's distance as a speed limit. Do not cross the solid white line or gore at an exit. Blue service signs do not guarantee that a business is open.