School Crossing Sign — Meaning

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

Category: Warning
Shape: Pentagon
Colors: Yellow-Green, Black
Text: (children crossing)
MUTCD Code: S2-1

What does the School Crossing Sign mean?

The School Crossing sign is a fluorescent yellow-green pentagon showing two children walking. It marks designated pedestrian crossings used by school children, typically near schools but sometimes between schools and bus stops or playgrounds.

What to do when you see this sign

1
Reduce speed and watch carefully for children
2
Stop completely if children are crossing or entering the crosswalk
3
Stop for school crossing guards
4
Do not pass other vehicles stopped at a school crosswalk

Where you'll see it

At marked crosswalks near schools
Between schools and bus stops
On routes children use to walk to school
At intersections with crossing guards

Test trap: don't get caught by this

School Crossing is different from School Zone. School Zone is the area around the school with reduced speed limits. School Crossing is a specific crosswalk children use, which may be far from the school itself.

Practice questions about the School Crossing Sign

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

Which statement about sign shapes is NOT correct?

View answer & explanation

What is a pentagon-shaped sign commonly used for?

View answer & explanation

What is a pentagon-shaped sign commonly used for?

View answer & explanation

Which statement about sign shapes is NOT correct?

View answer & explanation

Which statement about sign shapes is NOT correct?

View answer & explanation

What is a pentagon-shaped sign commonly used for?

View answer & explanation

States that test this sign

The School Crossing Sign appears in DMV practice tests for 40 states. Click any state to see its full DMV practice page.

Frequently asked questions

Are crossing guards allowed to stop traffic?

Yes. School crossing guards have legal authority to stop traffic at designated crosswalks during school hours. Drivers must obey their signals.

Do reduced speed limits apply at School Crossing signs?

Sometimes. School Crossing alone does not reduce the limit, but if combined with a School Zone sign and time placard, the reduced limit applies during posted hours.

What if I see no children at the School Crossing sign?

Continue with caution. Children may be just out of sight, and crossing patterns vary. Always be ready to stop.