Roundabout Ahead Sign — Meaning

By DMV Master Editorial Team Updated April 28, 2026 Also: Roundabout, Traffic Circle Ahead

Category: Warning
Shape: Diamond
Colors: Yellow, Black
Text: (circular arrows)
MUTCD Code: W2-6

What does the Roundabout Ahead Sign mean?

The Roundabout Ahead sign is a yellow diamond showing three curved arrows forming a circle. It warns drivers that a roundabout (or traffic circle) is approaching. Drivers must yield to traffic already inside the roundabout and travel counterclockwise.

What to do when you see this sign

1
Slow down as you approach
2
Yield to vehicles already in the roundabout
3
Enter when there is a safe gap — do not stop in the roundabout
4
Travel counterclockwise in the United States
5
Use turn signals when exiting

Where you'll see it

Approaching modern roundabouts (increasingly common in suburbs)
In coastal New England states (frequent in MA, RI, CT)
Replacing traditional 4-way stops in some communities
At highway interchanges in some states

Test trap: don't get caught by this

Vehicles INSIDE the roundabout always have right of way over those entering. Many drivers stop unnecessarily inside the roundabout, creating collisions. Once in, keep moving until you exit.