Slow - Children Sign
Reduce speed, children present in area
What to do
Slow down and watch carefully for children.
Tips
Extra caution during after-school hours.
Test yourself
You see this sign while driving. What do you have to do?
Show the answer
Slow down and watch carefully for children.
About warning signs
Warning signs are diamond-shaped and yellow with black symbols. They alert you to hazards ahead — curves, intersections, crossings — so you have time to slow down. On the DMV written test, expect several questions asking what a specific warning sign means and what action it calls for.
Practice the rule this sign carries
What does a 'flashing yellow school zone beacon' indicate?
- A. Yellow means warning only - school zone is not active
- B. The school zone is ACTIVE - slow to the posted school zone speed limit
- C. Proceed at normal speed if no children are visible
- D. Reduce speed by 10 mph below the posted limit
Show answer
B. The school zone is ACTIVE - slow to the posted school zone speed limit — Flashing school zone beacons indicate the school zone is active and the posted lower speed limit is in effect. This is legally enforceable. The beacon replaces the need for drivers to know school hours.
Universal rule · checked against MUTCD 11th Edition, Part 4 — Highway Traffic Signals — School Zone Beacons · verified 2026-08-01
In a school zone during school hours, when children are present, you must:
- A. Slow to the school zone limit and stop for children in the crosswalk
- B. Yield only if a crossing guard is present
- C. Maintain normal speed but be alert for children near the road
- D. Yield only when a flashing yellow beacon is lit
Show answer
A. Slow to the school zone limit and stop for children in the crosswalk — In active school zones, always reduce to the posted school zone speed limit. Stop for children in crosswalks or preparing to cross. The enhanced rules apply during posted school hours when children are present.
Universal rule · checked against NHTSA Pedestrian Safety — Pedestrian Safety · verified 2026-08-01
Frequently asked questions
What does the Slow - Children Sign mean?
Reduce speed, children present in area
What should you do at a Slow - Children Sign?
Slow down and watch carefully for children.
Reference standard: Federal Highway Administration Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices ↗. State and local agencies may add rules or operating times, so follow the complete posted sign where you drive. How DMV Prep sources content.
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