Texas Road Signs: 85 mph Limits, Handheld School Zone Law & DPS Knowledge Test

What is the speed limit on Texas highways. can it really be 85 mph? Are handheld devices banned in active Texas school zones? What is the penalty for driving around a flood barricade in Texas? The TX DPS Driver License Division at dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense requires applicants to meet vision, knowledge, and driving-skills requirements; driver-education requirements depend on age. Texas posts an 85 mph limit on part of SH 130. Using a handheld electronic device while driving in an active school zone is against the law. Driving around a flood barricade is a Class B misdemeanor. up to $2,000 fine and/or 180 days in jail. Traffic fines can double in work zones when workers are present.

1. Texas Road Signs and Posted Speed Limits: What to Review for the DPS Knowledge Test

Texas roads range from Houston freeways and Hill Country curves to Panhandle highways and low-water crossings. The TX DPS Driver License Division at dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense requires applicants to meet vision, knowledge, and driving-skills requirements. Driver education is required for most first-time applicants ages 18 through 24, while applicants age 25 or older are not required to complete an adult driver-education course. Texas speed limits are posted and enforced, and part of SH 130 is posted at 85 mph. Use the Texas Driver Handbook to review signs, signals, pavement markings, and traffic laws.

2. Texas Sign Shapes: What to Know for the DPS Knowledge Test

Texas uses a slow-moving vehicle emblem with a fluorescent orange center and red reflective border on a vehicle designed to operate at 25 mph or less. On highways from El Paso to Beaumont, shape and color identify a sign's message before the text is readable. Review the sign shapes, colors, and symbols in this table before the DPS knowledge test.

Shape	Diagram	Meaning	Example Sign
Octagon (8-sided)		STOP. come to a complete stop, wheels fully stopped, check all directions, then proceed when clear
Triangle (inverted)		Yield slow down, check traffic; if clear proceed, if not stop and wait until safe to go
Diamond		Hazard ahead; slow down, stay alert, and be ready to stop or steer
Rectangle (vertical)		Rectangular signs may be regulatory or guide signs; use the color, wording, and symbol to determine the meaning
Rectangle (horizontal)		Rectangular signs may be regulatory or guide signs; use the color, wording, and symbol to determine the meaning
Pentagon (5-sided)		School zone ahead; reduce speed and watch for children crossing
Round (circle)		Railroad crossing ahead; slow down, look both ways, and prepare to stop
Pennant		No passing zone; do not attempt to overtake any vehicle ahead
Orange (any shape)		Construction or work zone ahead; slow down, stay alert, and obey all posted signs
Blue (any shape)		Motorist services nearby; exit if you need fuel, food, or medical care
Brown (any shape)		Park or scenic area ahead; follow directional signs to reach it

Texas road sign color meanings: red marks stop, yield, or prohibited movements; black and white commonly mark regulations; yellow warns of road conditions; orange marks temporary traffic control and work zones; green gives directions; blue identifies motorist services; brown identifies recreation or cultural destinations; and fluorescent yellow-green may be used for school, pedestrian, and bicycle warnings.

3. Texas Regulatory Signs: School Zones, School Buses and Barricade Laws

Regulatory signs carry legal force in Texas. Using a handheld electronic device while driving in an active school zone is against the law. Driving around a barricade at a flooded road is a Class B misdemeanor, and illegally passing a stopped school bus can lead to fines, license consequences, or criminal charges if serious bodily injury occurs.

STOP Sign

Come to a full stop and yield before proceeding

YIELD Sign

Slow down and give right-of-way; stop if needed before proceeding

Speed Limit Sign

Do not exceed this speed; adjust for road and weather conditions

Do Not Enter Sign

Entry prohibited; turn around or find an alternate route

Wrong Way Sign

You have entered a one-way road against traffic

No U-Turn Sign

U-turns are prohibited at this location

No Left Turn Sign

Do not turn left here; continue straight or turn right

No Right Turn Sign

Do not turn right here; continue straight or turn left

One Way Sign

All traffic flows one direction; do not enter going the wrong way

Keep Right Sign

Move to the right side of the island or obstruction

No Passing Zone Sign

Do not pass here; wait until the no-passing zone ends

Do Not Pass Sign

Do not overtake any vehicle ahead until passing is permitted again

No Turn on Red Sign

Wait for a green signal before turning; do not turn on red

No Left Turn on Red Sign

Wait for green before turning left; no turn on red permitted

No Right Turn on Red Sign

Wait for green before turning right; no turn on red permitted

Turn Left Only Sign

You must turn left from this lane; going straight is not allowed

Turn Right Only Sign

You must turn right from this lane; going straight is not allowed

Straight or Turn Right Sign

From this lane you may only go straight or turn right

Minimum Speed Limit Sign

Do not drive below the posted minimum unless traffic, weather, or safety conditions require a lower speed

Slower Traffic Keep Right Sign

Move to the right lane if you are driving slower than traffic

No Parking Sign

Parking prohibited here; find a legal parking area nearby

No Trucks Sign

Trucks prohibited on this road; use an alternate truck route

No Bicycles Sign

Cyclists must not enter; use an alternate route

No Pedestrian Crossing Sign

Pedestrians must not cross here; use the nearest crosswalk

Reserved Parking Sign

Park here only if you qualify; others must find a different spot

Four Way Stop Sign

Stop completely; first arrival proceeds first, and simultaneous arrivals yield to the vehicle on the right

Stop Except Right Turn Sign

Traffic must stop except for the permitted right-turn movement; right-turning traffic must still yield as required

Left Turn Yield on Green Sign

Yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians before completing the left turn

Lane Use Control Sign

Follow the sign; only the shown movement is permitted from this lane

4. Texas Warning Signs: Hill Country Curves, Gulf Coast Flood Zones, High-Speed Work Areas and Slow-Moving Farm Equipment

Diamond-shaped yellow warning signs flag hazards before you reach them. on Texas roads that means curve warnings on Hill Country routes, flood-warning barricades on low-water Gulf Coast crossings, railroad crossing advances on rural branch lines, and slow-moving vehicle triangles on farm roads where equipment travels at 25 mph or less. Orange marks work zones where traffic fines can double when workers are present.

Left Curve

A curve to the left is ahead; reduce speed

Right Curve

A curve to the right is ahead; reduce speed

Sharp Left Turn

A very sharp left turn is ahead; slow down

Sharp Right Turn

A very sharp right turn is ahead; slow down

Winding Road

Multiple curves ahead; reduce speed and stay in your lane throughout

Set of Curves (Left-Right)

Multiple curves ahead curving left then right; reduce speed

Set of Curves (Right-Left)

Multiple curves ahead curving right then left; reduce speed

Sharp Turns (Left-Right)

Successive sharp turns ahead; slow down significantly

Slippery When Wet

Wet road is slippery; reduce speed and increase following distance

Deer Crossing

Animals frequently cross here; slow down and scan both sides of the road

Pedestrian Crossing

Crosswalk ahead; slow down and stop or yield to pedestrians as required

Bicycle Crossing

Cyclists may cross here; slow down, watch for bicycles, and yield when required

School Zone / Crossing

School area or crossing ahead; slow down and watch for children

School Crossing Ahead

School crosswalk ahead; yield to crossing guard and children

Divided Highway Begins

Road splits ahead; keep right and stay in your lane

Divided Highway Ends

Two-way traffic resumes ahead; stay right and watch oncoming traffic

Merging Traffic

Traffic is merging from another lane; adjust speed to allow safe entry

Added Lane

An additional lane begins ahead; entering traffic has a separate lane

Lane Ends Ahead

Your lane ends soon; check mirrors, signal, and merge now

Lane Ends Merge Left

Your lane ends; signal and move left before the lane disappears

Left Lane Ends

Left lane ends ahead; signal and move right before it closes

Road Narrows

Road gets narrower ahead; stay centered and reduce speed

Narrow Bridge Ahead

Bridge is narrower than the road; slow down and stay centered

Low Clearance

Overhead clearance is restricted; do not proceed if your vehicle is too tall

Railroad Crossing (RR)

Tracks ahead; slow down, look both ways, and stop if a train is coming

Hill / Steep Grade (Downgrade)

Steep hill ahead; reduce speed now and use a lower gear if needed

Bump

A bump is ahead; slow down before reaching it

Dip

Dip in the road ahead; reduce speed to avoid bottoming out

Loose Gravel

Loose gravel on road; reduce speed and increase following distance

Pavement Ends

Paved surface ends ahead; slow down before the surface changes

Shoulder Drop Off

Edge of road drops steeply; stay away from the shoulder

Watch for Ice on Bridges

Bridge may be icy; reduce speed and avoid sudden braking or steering

Two Way Traffic Ahead

Divided road ends; move to the right and watch for oncoming traffic

Cross Road

Intersection ahead; slow down and scan left and right before crossing

Cross Traffic

Traffic crosses from both sides; slow down and be ready to yield or stop

T Intersection

Your road ends ahead; slow down and prepare to turn left or right

Side Road

A side road joins ahead; watch for vehicles entering from the right or left

Highway Intersection Ahead

A major intersection is approaching; reduce speed and be ready to yield

Road Entering Curve

A road merges on a curve ahead; watch for vehicles entering

Roundabout

Yield to traffic already in the roundabout; then enter and keep right

Truck Rollover

High rollover risk for trucks on this curve or ramp; reduce speed

Weave Area

Lanes are entering and exiting; stay alert, check mirrors, and adjust speed

Advisory Speed

Recommended speed for the condition ahead; reduce speed appropriately

Traffic Signal Ahead

A traffic light is ahead; reduce speed and be ready to stop

5. Texas Guide Signs: I-10, I-35, I-45 and the Routes Connecting Houston, San Antonio, Dallas and El Paso

Guide signs do not regulate driving. they show destinations, distances, and services. Green = highway navigation. Blue = motorist services. Brown = parks and recreation.

Interstate Route Marker

You are on this interstate highway; note the number for navigation

US Route Marker

You are on this US highway; note the number for navigation

State Route Marker

You are on this state route; note the number for navigation

Exit Sign (Exit Only)

This lane leaves the highway; move out of it if you are not exiting

Mile Marker

Marks your location on the route; note it for emergency or navigation use

Services Sign

Services available at next exit; move right if you need to stop

Hospital Sign (H)

Hospital is nearby; follow signs if you need emergency care

Diesel

Diesel fuel available ahead; exit if your vehicle needs it

Park / Recreation Sign

Park or recreation area nearby; exit and follow directional signs

Texas FM and RM route signs: Farm-to-Market and Ranch-to-Market route markers identify state-maintained rural routes. The route number helps with navigation; it does not create a special speed limit, so follow the posted speed and warning signs.

6. Texas Traffic Signals: What Does a Flashing Yellow Arrow Mean?

Flashing red = stop. Flashing yellow = proceed with caution. A flashing yellow arrow allows a left turn after yielding to oncoming traffic and pedestrians. A steady red left arrow means stop and no left turn is allowed. If a traffic signal is dark or not operating, stop as though the intersection were controlled by stop signs, then proceed under the right-of-way rules.

Texas lane-control signals: a downward green arrow means the lane is open, a steady yellow X warns that the lane-use signal is changing and drivers should leave the lane safely, a flashing yellow X permits use of the lane for a left turn, and a red X means the lane is closed.

Standard Traffic Lights

Steady Red

Stop at the stop line or crosswalk; after stopping, a right turn or qualifying one-way-to-one-way left turn may be allowed unless prohibited, after yielding

Steady Yellow

The green movement is ending; stop if you can do so safely and do not speed up to enter

Steady Green

Proceed or turn as permitted after yielding to vehicles and pedestrians lawfully in the intersection

Green Arrow (left)

Proceed only in the arrow direction; yield to pedestrians

Steady Yellow Arrow

The protected turn is ending; prepare to stop

Red Light with Green Left Arrow

Traffic facing the green arrow may turn left after yielding to pedestrians; other movements remain stopped

Circular Green (no arrow)

Proceed as permitted; a left turn is allowed after yielding to oncoming traffic and pedestrians unless a sign prohibits it

Opposing Traffic Extended Green

Oncoming traffic still has green; wait and do not turn left yet

Flashing Signals

Flashing Red

Treat as a stop sign; stop fully, then proceed when safe and clear

Flashing Yellow

Slow down, check for hazards, and proceed with caution

Flashing Red Beacon

Treat the overhead beacon as a stop sign

Pedestrian Signals

WALK / White Walking Figure & DON'T WALK / Orange Hand

White figure = cross now; orange hand = do not start crossing

Flashing Orange Hand + Countdown

Crossing phase ending; finish if started, do not begin

Key test point: Flashing red requires a full stop. Flashing yellow means proceed with caution. A flashing yellow arrow permits a left turn only after yielding to oncoming traffic and pedestrians.

7. Texas Pavement Markings: Solid Yellow Line Rules, Shared Left-Turn Lanes and Bike Lanes

Yellow center lines separate opposing traffic, while white lane lines separate traffic moving in the same direction. Solid white also marks roadway edges, stop lines, and crosswalks, and solid yellow may mark the left edge of a divided roadway. Texas pavement markings include shared left-turn lanes, bicycle lanes, railroad-crossing markings, and lane-use arrows.

Line Colors

Yellow lines

Yellow center lines separate opposing traffic; a solid yellow line means no passing from that side

White lines

White lane lines separate same-direction traffic; white also marks roadway edges, stop lines, and crosswalks

Line Types

Broken yellow line (Single)

You may pass on your side if it is safe and clear ahead

Solid yellow + broken yellow

Pass only from the broken-line side when it is safe; do not pass from the solid side

Double solid yellow lines

Passing is not allowed in either direction; cross only for a lawful left turn when permitted and safe

Broken white line

You may change lanes if it is safe; always check mirrors and signal first

Solid white line

Discourages lane changes when it separates same-direction lanes and may also mark the roadway edge

Double solid white lines

Do not change lanes here; stay in your current lane

Center Turn Lane

For left turns only; signal, enter the lane, and turn; do not use it to travel

Center Turning Lane (sign)

For left turns only; signal, enter, and turn; do not drive through it

Pavement Symbols & Special Markings

Arrows in lane

You must follow the arrow direction from this lane

Stop line (wide white bar)

Stop completely behind this line; do not roll past it

Stop Here on Red

Stop at this painted line; do not inch forward past it

Crosswalk lines

Pedestrian crossing zone; obey signals and stop or yield to pedestrians as required

Broken white line (pavement)

You may change lanes if it is safe; check mirrors and signal first

Solid white line (pavement)

Discourages lane changes when it separates same-direction lanes and may also mark the roadway edge

Double solid white lines (pavement)

Do not change lanes here; stay in your current lane

Railroad crossing markings (X + RR)

Tracks ahead; slow down, look both ways, and be ready to stop

Diagonal yellow lines (channelized area)

Keep out of the striped area and follow the channelizing lines around the obstruction or separation

Bicycle lane marking

Marks a lane for bicycle travel; check for cyclists and yield before crossing it for a lawful turn

HOV / Carpool lane diamond

Follow the posted occupancy, toll, vehicle, and operating-hour requirements for that managed lane

Yellow curb

Curb-color restrictions are set locally; follow the posted parking or loading signs

Red curb

Curb-color restrictions are set locally; follow the posted no-stopping, fire-lane, or parking signs

White curb

Curb-color restrictions are set locally; follow the posted passenger-loading or parking signs

Key test point: Yellow center lines separate opposing traffic, and white lane lines separate same-direction traffic. Edge, stop, and crosswalk markings use these colors for additional purposes.

8. Texas Work Zone Signs: Doubled Fines When Workers Are Present and Flood Barricade Penalties

Orange warning signs identify construction, maintenance, and temporary traffic-control areas in Texas. Traffic fines double in a construction or maintenance work zone when workers are present. A separate and more serious rule: driving around a barricade placed at a location where water is over any portion of a road is a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $2,000 and/or up to 180 days in jail.

Road Work Ahead

Construction zone begins ahead; reduce speed and stay alert

Flagger Ahead

A person is directing traffic; obey their signals

Workers Ahead

Road workers are present; slow down and be ready to stop

Active Work Zone

You are in an active work zone; drive with extra caution

End of Active Work Zone

Work zone ends; resume normal speed and check posted limit

Work Zone Headlights

Turn on your headlights when directed by the posted work-zone sign

Lane Closed Ahead

A travel lane ends ahead; merge early

Road Closed

Road is completely closed; follow detour signs

Orange barrels / cones

Active work zone boundaries; stay within marked lanes

Channelizing devices (barricades)

Follow the barricades; do not drive through or around them

• You must obey warning signs, signals, and flag person instructions in Texas work zones.
• Texas traffic fines double in a construction or maintenance work zone when workers are present.
• Driving around a barricade placed where water is over the road = Class B misdemeanor, up to $2,000 fine and/or up to 180 days in jail. Never drive around these barricades.

Key test point: Orange signs warn of construction, maintenance, or other temporary traffic control. Reduce speed, increase following distance, and follow flaggers and channelizing devices.

9. Texas Railroad Crossings: Stop 15 to 50 Feet From the Nearest Rail and No Parking Within 50 Feet

At Texas railroad grade crossings, stop within 15 to 50 feet of the nearest rail when directed by a flag person, when flashing red lights or warning bells are active, when another warning device indicates a train is coming, or when a train is visible and in hazardous proximity. No parking within 50 feet of the nearest rail of a railroad crossing. Never stop on the tracks.

Stop Line

Stop here completely when required before proceeding

RR Crossbuck Sign (X-shaped)

Located at the crossing; yield to trains

Railroad Crossing (at crossing)

You are at the crossing; stop if lights flash or gate lowers

Crossing Gates

Lower when a train is coming; never drive around a lowered gate

Pavement markings (X + RR)

Tracks ahead marked on pavement; slow down and prepare to stop

Flashing Red Lights

A train is approaching; stop and wait until fully clear

• Stop before the gate lowers when lights begin to flash. Remain stopped until the gates are raised and the lights stop flashing.
• Stop within 15 to 50 feet of the nearest rail when: directed by a flag person; flashing red lights or warning bells are active; another warning device indicates a train is coming; or a train is visible and in hazardous proximity.
• No parking within 50 feet of the nearest rail of a railroad crossing.
• Never stop on the tracks or drive around a lowered gate. A lowered gate means the road is closed.
• After one train passes, look and listen again and make sure every track is clear before crossing.

Emergency Notification System sign: The blue ENS sign at a public crossing lists an emergency phone number and crossing identification number. Use it to report a stalled vehicle, damaged signal, or other crossing problem, and call 911 for an immediate emergency.

Key test point: When a stop is required, stop 15 to 50 feet from the nearest rail. Do not park within 50 feet, drive around a lowered gate, or cross until every track is clear.

10. Texas School Zone Rules: Handheld Devices and the School Bus Divided-Highway Rule

Pentagon-shaped school signs identify school areas and crossings. Texas school-zone speed limits are set by the posted sign and may be active at stated times or when beacons flash. Using a handheld electronic device while driving in an active school zone is against the law. When a school bus displays alternating flashing red lights, stop before reaching the bus and remain stopped until the lights stop, the bus moves, or the driver signals you to proceed. Opposing traffic is exempt only when the roadways are separated by an intervening space or physical barrier.

School Zone

School ahead; reduce speed and watch for children

School Speed Limit

Obey the reduced speed limit posted in school zones

Speed Limit Lights Flashing

Obey the reduced posted speed when the beacon or sign indicates the school zone is active

School Crossing Ahead

School crosswalk ahead; yield to crossing guard and children

• Texas school zones use posted speed limits and activation times or flashing beacons; Texas does not use one statewide school-zone speed for every location.
• Using a handheld electronic device while driving in an active school zone is against the law. Texas also prohibits sending or receiving electronic messages while driving statewide.
• Flashing yellow school-bus lights warn that the bus is preparing to stop; slow down and be ready to stop. Alternating flashing red lights require drivers to stop before reaching the bus.
• Remain stopped until the red lights stop flashing, the bus resumes motion, or the bus driver signals you to proceed.
• Divided-highway exception: Opposing traffic need not stop only when the roadways are separated by an intervening space or physical barrier. A center left-turn lane alone does not create a separate roadway.
• Illegally passing a stopped school bus can carry a fine of up to $1,250 for a first offense, with additional consequences for repeat offenses or serious bodily injury.

Key test point: A pentagon identifies a school area or school crossing. Follow the posted speed, activation times or flashing beacon, and crossing-guard directions.

11. Texas Pedestrian and Bicycle Signs: Crosswalk Yield Rules and Right Turns Across Bike Lanes

Texas drivers must stop and yield for pedestrians in crosswalks and must yield when turning across a pedestrian's path. Bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers and may use more of the lane when hazards, a left turn, passing, or a narrow lane make right-edge travel unsafe or impractical. Before turning across a bicycle lane, check for cyclists and yield the right of way.

Pedestrian Crossing Sign

Crosswalk ahead; slow down and stop or yield to pedestrians as required

Bicycle Crossing Sign

Cyclists may cross here; slow down, watch for bicycles, and yield when required

No Bicycles

Cyclists must not enter; use an alternate route

No Pedestrian Crossing

Pedestrians must not cross here; use the nearest crosswalk

• Drivers must stop and yield for pedestrians in crosswalks and yield when turning across a pedestrian's path. Pedestrians must follow traffic and crosswalk signals and should not enter a vehicle's path when it cannot stop safely.
• Bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers. They should ride in the same direction as traffic and use a bicycle lane or ride as near as practicable to the right-hand curb.
• A bicyclist may move away from the right edge when passing, preparing for a left turn, avoiding hazards, or using a lane too narrow for a bicycle and vehicle to travel safely side by side.
• Before making a right turn across a bicycle lane, check mirrors and blind spots and yield to cyclists. Do not turn across a cyclist's path.
• Fluorescent yellow-green may be used for pedestrian, bicycle, and school warnings; use the symbol and sign shape to identify the specific hazard.

Key test point: Stop and yield for pedestrians in crosswalks, and yield to pedestrians and bicyclists before turning across their path.

12. How to Prepare for the Texas DPS Knowledge Test: Road Signs, Signals and Pavement Markings

• Use the current Texas Driver Handbook. Review regulatory, warning, guide, school, work-zone, and railroad signs, plus traffic signals and pavement markings. Visit dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense for current licensing and testing requirements.
• Know the application requirements for your age. DPS requires applicants to satisfy vision, knowledge, and driving-skills requirements; adult driver education is required for most first-time applicants ages 18 through 24 but not for applicants age 25 or older.
• Follow posted speed limits. Part of SH 130 is posted at 85 mph, but the legal speed is the number on the sign and drivers must slow for traffic, weather, and work-zone conditions.
• Know Texas signal meanings. Flashing red = stop. Flashing yellow = proceed with caution. Flashing yellow arrow = left turn permitted only after yielding to oncoming traffic and pedestrians.
• Review solid yellow line rules. Yellow center lines separate opposing traffic; a solid line prohibits passing from that side, while a shared center lane is for left turns only.
• Remember the school-bus divided-highway rule. Stop for alternating flashing red lights unless the bus is on a separate roadway divided by an intervening space or physical barrier; a center left-turn lane is not enough.
• Use no handheld electronic device in an active school zone. Texas also prohibits sending or receiving electronic messages while driving statewide.
• Traffic fines double in a construction or maintenance work zone when workers are present. Follow orange signs, flaggers, lane closures, and channelizing devices.
• Never drive around a flood barricade. Driving around a barricade where water covers any part of the road is a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to a $2,000 fine and/or up to 180 days in jail.
• Railroad crossing stop distance is 15 to 50 feet. Stop in that range when required, never drive around a lowered gate, and check every track for another train.
• Yield before turning across a crosswalk or bicycle lane. Stop and yield for pedestrians in crosswalks and check for cyclists before crossing a bike lane.