Rest Area sign

What to do

Use rest areas to take breaks and avoid driving while drowsy.

On long trips, use rest areas to take regular breaks and stop whenever you start to feel tired.

Where it's used

Section 2I.05 requires rest area signs to be white on blue, and allows the words REST AREA only where both parking and restrooms are available; other areas are signed as PARKING AREA, PICNIC AREA or SCENIC AREA. On freeways the advance D5-1 sign should be placed 1 and/or 2 miles before the rest area, with an exit gore sign at the turn-off. Accessibility, TDD, wireless Internet or Next Rest Area signs may be added.

Don't confuse it with

• Lodging: The Lodging sign points to overnight accommodation, while a rest area is for short breaks.
• Food: The Food sign points to places to eat; rest areas have restrooms and parking but not necessarily food.