Recognize the message before you reach the sign. Learn the general road principle, then check how your state handbook frames the decision.
Practice all road signs & signals questionsA red octagon identifies a stop sign. An inverted triangle identifies a yield sign. Yellow warning signs call attention to hazards; orange signs draw attention to work zones. Read the symbol or wording to understand the specific message.
Recognizing a sign is only the first step. A stop sign calls for a complete stop and a check for conflicting traffic. A yield sign calls for reducing speed, looking for others who need the space, and stopping if necessary.
Supplemental plaques can change when or where a sign applies. Read time periods, arrows, and lane information together with the main sign. A posted maximum speed is not a promise that the speed is safe in rain, darkness, or congestion.
Remember: Shape tells you the category. The symbol tells you the message. Your surroundings determine the safe response.
Federal Highway Administration referenceState-focused questions appear first when available; general road-rule questions are labeled separately and do not replace New York law.
Answer: Two
NY DMV requires at least two of the four road-sign questions correct, as well as at least 14 total.
New York official sourceAnswer: The applicant does not meet the sign-question requirement
New York DMV describes two thresholds: at least 14 total correct answers and at least two correct answers from the four sign questions.
New York official sourceAnswer: Stop before the limit line, then scan before proceeding
The octagon identifies STOP. Come to a complete stop at the marked stopping point, look for all road users, and proceed only when the intersection is safe and permitted.
Federal Highway Administration referenceAnswer: Reduce speed and give priority to traffic or pedestrians with the right-of-way
The inverted triangle is the standard YIELD shape. Yielding means slowing or stopping as needed so another road user with priority can proceed safely; the sign does not always require a stop.
Federal Highway Administration referenceAnswer: Slow, look and listen for trains, and cross only when the tracks are clear
A crossbuck marks a railroad crossing. Trains need far more distance to stop than a car, so check the approach and tracks and never enter unless you can clear them completely.
Federal Highway Administration referencePermit preparation context: The online manual identifies Chapters 4–11 as the material needed for the Class D, DJ, or E learner-permit written test.
Permit preparation context: The Class D permit test has 20 multiple-choice questions; at least 14 correct are required, including at least two of four sign questions.
Use the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles driver handbook for the complete rule, exceptions, and current wording.