No Passing Zone Sign
The no passing zone sign is a yellow pennant-shaped sign that marks the beginning of a section where overtaking other vehicles is prohibited. It always appears on the left side of the road facing the driver.
Last updated: April 4, 2026
The no passing zone sign tells drivers they cannot overtake or pass another vehicle going in the same direction starting at this point. The prohibition continues until a sign indicates passing is permitted again or until the road markings change. No passing zones exist where sight lines are limited, such as on curves, hills, and near intersections, where attempting to pass could result in a head-on collision.
Quick Facts
Type
Regulatory Sign
Shape
Pennant (isosceles triangle pointing right)
Colours
Yellow background with black text
In this guide
What does the No Passing Zone Sign mean?
The no passing zone sign tells drivers they cannot overtake or pass another vehicle going in the same direction starting at this point. The prohibition continues until a sign indicates passing is permitted again or until the road markings change. No passing zones exist where sight lines are limited, such as on curves, hills, and near intersections, where attempting to pass could result in a head-on collision.
What to do when you see it
Do not attempt to pass any vehicle ahead of you from this point forward until the no passing zone ends. If you have already begun a pass when you reach this sign, complete it quickly and safely only if not doing so would cause a collision. Return to your lane as soon as possible.
Where you'll see it in Ontario
No passing zone signs are placed just before curves, crests of hills, intersections, and railway crossings where sight lines are too short for safe overtaking. On rural Ontario roads, they are common near blind corners and bridge approaches.
G1 test relevance
G1 tests include questions on the pennant shape of the no passing zone sign, which is the only regulatory sign in Canada with this shape. Candidates must also know that passing is prohibited in no passing zones even if the road appears clear ahead.
Common mistakes drivers make
Attempting to pass because the driver can see a short distance ahead is a very common and dangerous mistake. The sign exists precisely because the full sight line is insufficient. Another mistake is continuing a pass started before the sign when the vehicle being passed slows unexpectedly.
Related Signs
Curve Ahead Sign
The curve ahead sign warns drivers of a gradual curve in the road ahead. Drivers should reduce speed before entering the curve, not during it, to maintain control and stay in their lane.
Learn moreSteep Hill Downward Sign
The steep hill downward sign warns of a significant downgrade ahead. Drivers must select an appropriate gear before descending to avoid brake fade, especially in heavy vehicles.
Learn moreSpeed Limit Sign
The speed limit sign is a white rectangular sign showing the maximum legal speed in kilometres per hour for that section of road. Drivers must not exceed the posted number under normal conditions.
Learn moreTwo-Way Traffic Sign
The two-way traffic sign warns drivers that they are leaving a one-way road and entering a section where traffic travels in both directions. Drivers must adjust their position to the right lane.
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