Pedestrian Crossing Sign — Meaning

By DMV Master Editorial Team Updated April 28, 2026 Also: Pedestrian Xing, Crosswalk

Category: Warning
Shape: Pentagon or Diamond
Colors: Yellow-Green, Black
Text: (symbol)
MUTCD Code: W11-2

What does the Pedestrian Crossing Sign mean?

The Pedestrian Crossing sign is a fluorescent yellow-green diamond or pentagon showing a pedestrian silhouette walking. It warns drivers that pedestrians may be crossing the road ahead and to be prepared to stop and yield.

What to do when you see this sign

1
Reduce speed and watch carefully for pedestrians
2
Yield to anyone in or approaching the crosswalk
3
Stop completely if a pedestrian is crossing
4
Do not pass other vehicles stopped at a crosswalk — they may be yielding

Where you'll see it

Near schools, parks, and senior centers
On commercial streets with foot traffic
At mid-block crosswalks (away from intersections)
Near hospitals and shopping centers

Test trap: don't get caught by this

Pedestrians have right of way in any marked OR unmarked crosswalk at intersections. The Pedestrian Crossing sign is a warning to be alert; it does not change the underlying yield rule.

Practice questions about the Pedestrian Crossing Sign

Test your knowledge with real DMV-style questions, each with the correct answer and explanation.

What does a PEDESTRIAN CROSSING sign indicate?

View answer & explanation

What do crosswalk markings indicate?

View answer & explanation

When you see a stop sign, what must you do?

View answer & explanation

What does a PEDESTRIAN CROSSING sign indicate?

View answer & explanation

What do crosswalk markings indicate?

View answer & explanation

What do crosswalk markings indicate?

View answer & explanation

States that test this sign

The Pedestrian Crossing Sign appears in DMV practice tests for 50 states. Click any state to see its full DMV practice page.

Frequently asked questions

Do pedestrians always have the right of way?

In marked crosswalks and at intersections, yes. Outside crosswalks (jaywalking), the pedestrian must yield to traffic but drivers must still avoid collision.

What if a pedestrian is waiting at the curb but not yet crossing?

In most states, if a pedestrian shows clear intent to cross (stepping forward, looking at traffic), drivers must yield. Some states require yielding only once they enter the crosswalk.

Can I pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk?

No. The stopped vehicle may be yielding to a pedestrian you cannot see. Wait for the vehicle ahead to proceed before continuing.