Chapter 5 — Signals and Signs 79 Traffic Signs Shape and color make it possible to recognize the various kinds of highway signs  at a glance. Traffic signs are divided into three types: The eight-sided (or octagon) sign is the  stop  sign. The word  “STOP” is printed in white on a red background. The  octagonal shape is used for stop signs only. The stop sign is  usually posted six to 50 feet from the intersection. When  you approach this sign, the law requires you to come to a  FULL stop. Do not proceed to move again until you are  sure the way is clear. The  yield  sign is triangular shaped with the point at  the bottom. This sign is red and white with the word  “YIELD” in large letters at the top. When you approach  the yield sign, you must slow down and yield the right  of way. Your need to stop depends on the traffic on the  intersecting street. To avoid interfering with that traffic,  you must stop and wait for it to pass. When a stop sign, traffic light, flashing light or other  traffic-control device requires a vehicle to stop at an  intersection, the driver must stop at the appropriately marked stop line. If there  is no stop line or marked crosswalk, the driver must stop before entering the  intersection where he/she has a view of the intersecting street. 1. Regulatory Signs Rectangular and square-shaped signs, which are normally  black and white or red and white, are also used to show speed limits and other  regulations. These signs will also have messages such as “NO U-TURN” or  “KEEP RIGHT EXCEPT TO PASS.” Failure to obey these signs is unsafe as  well as a violation of the traffic laws. The  handicap parking  sign indicates  that a space is reserved for persons  who qualify for and are displaying a  handicap license plate or a dashboard  placard.