Rest Area Sign
The rest area sign indicates that a roadside rest area or travel centre is ahead on the highway. These facilities typically offer parking, picnic areas, and sometimes restrooms or information services.
Last updated: April 4, 2026
Rest areas on Ontario highways are designated roadside stops where drivers can safely pull off the highway to rest, use washroom facilities, eat, and review maps. They are positioned at intervals along major routes to reduce driver fatigue, which is a leading cause of fatal collisions on long-distance roads. Signs are posted well in advance of the rest area exit.
Quick Facts
Type
Information Sign
Shape
Rectangular
Colours
Blue background with white symbol (picnic table and tree)
In this guide
What does the Rest Area Sign mean?
Rest areas on Ontario highways are designated roadside stops where drivers can safely pull off the highway to rest, use washroom facilities, eat, and review maps. They are positioned at intervals along major routes to reduce driver fatigue, which is a leading cause of fatal collisions on long-distance roads. Signs are posted well in advance of the rest area exit.
What to do when you see it
If you are tired, hungry, or need a break, plan to stop at the next rest area. Do not stop on the highway shoulder to rest unless it is an emergency. Rest areas are free to use and accessible to all vehicles including large trucks. At service centres, fuel and food are available.
Where you'll see it in Ontario
Rest areas are found at regular intervals on Ontario's 400-series highways, the Trans-Canada Highway through northern Ontario, and on major provincial roads. Ontario service centres are larger facilities with fuel, food, and restrooms at Highway 400, 401, 402, and other routes.
G1 test relevance
Rest areas are discussed in the driver's handbook as part of fatigue management. G1 test questions may address the importance of rest stops in preventing driver fatigue and the rule that stopping on the highway shoulder for rest is prohibited except in emergencies.
Common mistakes drivers make
Pushing past fatigue on a highway rather than stopping at a rest area is one of the most dangerous driving behaviours. Microsleep episodes lasting only a few seconds at highway speed can be fatal.
Related Signs
Highway Route Sign
Highway route signs identify numbered provincial and county highways in Ontario. Blue shields mark the 400-series expressways, blue rectangles mark provincial roads, and blue markers indicate county roads.
Learn moreDistance Marker Sign
Distance marker signs show the distance in kilometres to upcoming cities or destinations along the route. They help drivers estimate travel time and plan fuel and rest stops.
Learn moreGas Station Sign
The gas station sign is a blue sign with a white fuel pump symbol that indicates the nearest fuel station is accessible from the upcoming exit or road. It is posted on highways and major roads to help drivers plan fuel stops.
Learn moreFood Service Sign
The food service sign is a blue sign with a white fork and spoon symbol indicating that restaurants or food services are available near the upcoming exit or road junction.
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