What does this symbol mean?
MUTCD R1-2 A downward-pointing triangle with a red border, a white centre and the word YIELD in red

Yield sign

A regulatory sign requiring traffic to slow down and give the right-of-way to other traffic and pedestrians, stopping if necessary.

Rules vary by state and country. This explains the sign's standard meaning in the U.S. Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices; it isn't legal advice.

How to read it

The YIELD sign is the only downward-pointing triangle in the MUTCD.

Also searched as: give way sign, R1-2.

More road signs

Sources

  • Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways, 11th edition, MUTCD, U.S. Federal Highway Administration
  • Standard Highway Signs and Markings, U.S. Federal Highway Administration

Last reviewed September 23, 2026.