Rest Area Sign — Meaning
- Category
- Services
- Shape
- Vertical Rectangle
- Colors
- Blue, White
- Text
- REST AREA
- MUTCD Code
- D5-1
What does the Rest Area Sign mean?
The Rest Area sign is a blue rectangle reading "REST AREA" with arrows or distance information. Rest areas provide restrooms, parking, vending, and sometimes information centers — operated by state DOTs along major highways for traveler safety.
-
1
Use rest areas to combat fatigue on long drives
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2
Take a 15–20 minute break every 2 hours
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3
Use restrooms and stretch your legs
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4
Stay alert for posted closing times (some close overnight)
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On major interstates and US Routes -
Approximately every 50–80 miles in most states -
At state borders (often combined with Welcome Centers) -
Following major cities or scenic routes
Drowsy driving causes 100,000+ crashes per year in the US. Rest areas exist for safety — pull over and rest if you feel tired. Most states allow brief overnight parking, though sleeping in rest areas may be restricted.
Can I sleep at a rest area?
Are rest areas open 24/7?
What is the difference between a rest area and a welcome center?
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