Side Road Sign: CDL Practice Question & Meaning
Road signs on the CDL knowledge test: practice with the Side Road Sign
Whether the Side Road Sign appears on your CDL knowledge test depends on your state’s question bank, so we don’t claim it will. Every CDL applicant is expected to read standard road signs correctly, though, and this one is worth knowing by shape, color and meaning before test day.
Try the 5-question mini-test below, then take the full road-signs practice test or the CDL general knowledge practice test.
The side road sign is a diamond-shaped yellow warning sign that shows a smaller road entering or crossing the main road. The symbol shows a vertical line (your road) with a smaller line joining it from the left or right side, indicating where the side road connects. This sign warns you that traffic may be entering your road from a side street or minor road ahead. Drivers on the side road may be pulling onto your road, possibly without a clear view of approaching traffic. When you see this sign, stay alert for vehicles entering from the side road, slow down if needed, and be ready to adjust your speed or lane position. There are several variations of this sign. Some show the side road meeting at a right angle, while others show it meeting at an angle. The T-intersection and Y-intersection signs are related but indicate that your road ends rather than continues. The side road sign is especially useful on rural highways where a smaller county road or farm road intersects the main route, and the intersection may not have a traffic signal or stop sign for cross traffic.
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CDL & Commercial Driver Notes
CDL drivers should watch for vehicles pulling onto the road from side streets — passenger car drivers may misjudge the speed and distance of a large approaching truck. Maintain a consistent speed so other drivers can accurately judge your approach. Be prepared to use your horn if a vehicle pulls out in front of you, and leave enough following distance to brake safely.
Also studying for your regular driver's license? See this sign on DMV Help
Rules & What to Do
Watch for vehicles entering from the side road ahead. Be prepared to slow down or yield if needed. Maintain a safe speed so you can react to vehicles pulling out from the side road. Cover your brake as you pass the intersection.
Penalties
There is no penalty for the warning sign itself. However, failing to yield or causing an accident at a side road intersection can result in traffic citations ranging from $100-$300 plus points on your record.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a side road sign mean?
A side road sign warns that a smaller road enters or crosses your road ahead. Watch for vehicles that may be pulling onto your road from the side street.
What does the T-shaped road sign mean?
A T-intersection sign means your road ends ahead and you must turn left or right. This is different from a side road sign, which means a smaller road is joining your road while your road continues straight.
What shape is a side road sign?
A side road sign is diamond-shaped with a yellow background and a black symbol showing a smaller road joining the main road. It's a standard warning sign shape.
