U.S. Route marker sign
Identifies a U.S. numbered highway: black numerals on a white shield on a black square.
What to do
Use the route number to follow the U.S. highway.
Follow the number with the direction plaque, and watch for junction and turn arrow plaques where the route changes roads.
Where it's used
Section 2D.11 requires the U.S. Route (M1-4) sign on all U.S. routes and in route sign assemblies on roads that meet them; U.S. numbers are assigned by AASHTO (Section 2D.09). It must have black numerals on a white shield set on a black square background with no border, at least 24 x 24 inches for one or two digits and 30 x 24 inches for three. When used on a green guide sign only the shield shape and numbers are shown, without the black background.
Don't confuse it with
- Interstate Route marker: The Interstate marker is a red, white and blue shield, while the U.S. Route marker is black and white.
- State Route marker: State route markers are designed by each State, often a circle or State outline, while the U.S. marker always uses the same shield.
- County Route marker: The County Route marker is a blue and yellow pentagon.
- Type
- Route markers
- Shape
- Shield
- Colors
- black, white
- MUTCD code
- M1-4
- MUTCD section
- 2D.11
On state permit tests
Our questions for 1 state ask about this sign, including Wisconsin.
Test yourself
What does a U.S. Route number sign look like? (Wisconsin practice test)
- Like a police badge, usually grey or white with black lettering
- A red and blue shield
- A white rectangle with rounded edges
- A milk-jug shape
Show answer
Like a police badge, usually grey or white with black lettering. The U.S. route sign looks like a police badge and is normally grey or white with black lettering.
More route markers
Interstate Route marker
Off-Interstate Business Loop marker
State Route marker
County Route markerFrom the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), 11th edition, section 2D.11. Sign image: public domain, source.