Learning how to drive is not just about handling a vehicle.
It is also about understanding the road and the signs that guide you.
If you are planning to apply for a student permit, driver’s license, or even just want to be a safer commuter or pedestrian, road signs and markings are a must-know.
These signs are taught during driving school, tested in the LTO written exam, and required knowledge for anyone who uses public roads.
There is no cost to study them since resources are free online, through the Land Transportation Office (LTO), and in the Filipino Driver’s Manual.
But failing to follow them?
That can be costly in fines, accidents, or worse—injury.
Why Road Signs and Markings Matter
Road signs are like silent traffic officers.
They guide, warn, and remind.
They are placed in strategic spots so that all drivers, riders, and pedestrians can quickly make decisions.
Signs also keep us from second-guessing at intersections, speeding unknowingly, or missing sharp turns.
They organize the road into a safe space.
Without signs and markings, driving becomes a guessing game.
Imagine approaching a busy roundabout with no yield sign.
Or entering a one-way street with no warning.
Confusing, right?
Road signs prevent these situations.
They are standardized across the country by the LTO so that no matter where you are, you will recognize them.
Regulatory Signs: The Rules of the Road
Regulatory signs tell you what you must do—or must not do.
They are usually red, white, and black in color.
They include shapes like circles, octagons, and triangles.
Here are common examples:
Stop Sign
This is the big red octagon.
When you see it, you must come to a complete stop and check both ways before moving again.
Yield Sign
This triangle-shaped sign tells you to give way to vehicles or pedestrians crossing your path.
No Entry Sign
A red circle with a white bar across the middle.
It means you cannot enter this road from your direction.
Speed Limit Signs
These signs clearly state the maximum speed allowed.
They change depending on the area.
Watch out for them especially near schools, highways, or tight streets.
Regulatory signs help avoid fines and accidents.
Ignoring them can lead to violations recorded in the LTO system.
Warning Signs: Look Ahead, Stay Alert
These signs are yellow and shaped like diamonds.
They warn you of hazards that might not be visible right away.
Here are a few:
Sharp Curve Ahead
Tells you to slow down and steer carefully.
Pedestrian Crossing
A human figure on the sign means people may be crossing.
Drivers must slow down and be ready to stop.
Slippery When Wet
This sign appears in areas where rain can make roads more dangerous.
Drive slowly and avoid sudden turns or braking.
These signs are your early alert system.
They are not there to scare you.
They are there to keep you ready for what is coming up ahead.
Guide and Informative Signs: Helping You Find Your Way
These signs are green, blue, or white and help you reach your destination.
They do not give rules, but they give helpful directions.
Some of the most useful ones include:
Directional Signs
These arrows point the way to cities, barangays, highways, or tourist spots.
Distance Markers
They show how far you are from your destination.
This is helpful for planning your drive or checking how long it will take to get there.
Service Signs
You’ll see these near hospitals, gas stations, or even rest stops.
They help you find what you need when you’re unfamiliar with the area.
Guide signs make navigation easier, especially when Waze or Google Maps signal gets lost.
Pavement Markings: Painted Reminders Under Your Wheels
Even without overhead signs, the road itself speaks to you through markings.
Painted lines are everywhere—from crosswalks to lane dividers.
And they are just as important.
Here’s what they mean:
Lane Divisions
White or yellow lines divide lanes going in the same or opposite directions.
Broken lines mean you can cross or change lanes with care.
Solid lines mean stay in your lane.
Pedestrian Crosswalks
These are white stripes across the road.
Drivers must stop if a pedestrian is crossing.
Stop Lines
Thick white lines near intersections or signs tell drivers where to stop.
If you go beyond it, you may block other vehicles or endanger pedestrians.
Pavement markings keep traffic flowing in a smooth, safe, and predictable way.
They are most useful at night or in busy traffic where signs may be hard to see.
Cheat Sheet: Quick Table for Easy Reference
| Category | Look | Examples | Purpose |
| Regulatory Signs | Red, circular or octagon | Stop, Yield, No Entry | Enforce traffic rules and speed limits |
| Warning Signs | Yellow, diamond-shaped | Sharp Curve, Slippery Road | Warn of hazards or road changes |
| Guide Signs | Green, blue, or white with arrows | Highway Signs, Distance Boards | Help with directions and locations |
| Pavement Markings | White or yellow paint on the road | Lane Lines, Crosswalks | Guide driver behavior and ensure safety |
How to Practice Recognizing Signs
Seeing these signs in photos is one thing.
But recognizing them in real life is different.
Here are some simple ways to practice:
- Watch the roads during your daily commute.
- Quiz yourself using online resources like the LTO portal or driving school websites.
- Practice mock written tests to boost your memory before the actual exam.
- Ask licensed drivers around you to explain signs they see on the road.
The more you see them, the more natural it becomes to understand and obey them.
Where to Learn More
If you want to study further, here are official sources:
1. Filipino Driver’s Manual
This is free and available online.
It has everything you need to learn to become a responsible driver.
2. LTO CDE Module
Before you can renew a license, you must complete this online module.
It includes lessons on signs, signals, and road etiquette.
3. Driving Schools
Many driving schools include sign lessons as part of their course.
Make sure your school is accredited by the LTO.
Why Learning This Now Matters
Even if you are not driving yet, knowing these signs gives you power.
Power to move around safely.
Power to avoid trouble.
Power to help others on the road.
It is easy to ignore signs when you’re in a rush.
But every sign is there because something has happened before.
Maybe an accident.
Maybe a near miss.
Each one is a lesson made visible.
Take the time to learn them now.
That way, you’re not just passing the exam.
You’re helping make the roads safer for everyone—including yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can pedestrians be fined for not following road signs?
While pedestrians are less likely to be fined, they are still expected to follow traffic lights, cross only on designated crosswalks, and respect road safety rules.
2. Are road signs the same across all regions?
Yes. Road signs are standardized by the LTO so drivers from any area can understand them.
3. What if I see a damaged or unclear road sign?
You can report it to your local traffic office or barangay so they can notify the proper road maintenance team.
4. Do colorblind drivers get help with sign recognition?
Yes. Road signs are designed with both color and shape to make them recognizable even for colorblind drivers.