Advisory speed plaque: what it means
The yellow Advisory Speed plaque shows the speed advised for the hazard on the warning sign above it, such as a curve. It is advice for that spot, not the speed limit.
What does the advisory speed plaque mean?
MUTCD Section 2C.59 says the Advisory Speed plaque may be used to supplement a warning sign to show the advisory speed for a condition. It is yellow like other warning signs; speed limits are on white regulatory signs.
Quick quiz
What does the sign at the top of this page mean?
- The speed advised for the hazard.
- A sharp turn ahead, slow down.
- The road curves ahead.
Show answer
A. The speed advised for the hazard. It shows the advisory speed for the hazard on the warning sign (MUTCD Section 2C.59). Source: MUTCD 11th Edition, Chapter 2C, Warning Signs and Object Markers: Section 2C.59, FHWA; MUTCD 11th Edition, FHWA
Where will you see it?
Under curve, turn, bump and other warning signs, and on exit ramps.
What should you do?
Slow to the advised speed before you reach the hazard, and go slower in rain, ice or darkness.
What do people get wrong?
Treating it as optional and taking a curve at the speed limit. The advisory speed is set for the curve.
Common questions
Is the advisory speed the legal limit?
The legal limit is on the white Speed Limit sign. The yellow plaque gives the advised speed for the hazard (MUTCD Section 2C.59).
Where is the advisory speed plaque used?
Under a warning sign, such as a curve or turn sign (Section 2C.59).
Compare with
Want to test someone else? Play a road-sign quiz with friends and family.
Sources
Checked on 3 November 2026 against the MUTCD 11th Edition (FHWA), Section 2C.59.
- MUTCD 11th Edition, Chapter 2C, Warning Signs and Object Markers: Section 2C.59, FHWA
- MUTCD 11th Edition, FHWA. FHWA lists the current version as the 11th Edition with Revision 1, dated December 2025
Sign pictures are our own simplified drawings of the MUTCD designs, which are in the public domain (MUTCD Section 1D.06). Sources and image credits.