English 
Spanish 
3 min read
1 comments
Many drivers see this sign every day, but few know its true meaning. See details of other traffic signs
Those who start the process of obtaining a driver's license in Brazil often face a real challenge: the impressive number of traffic signs that need to be understood and memorized.
O Brazilian Traffic Code (CTB) presents a wide range of signs, divided between warnings, recommendations, prohibitions, obligations and restrictions.
But what many people don't know is that, in addition to the most common signs, such as “stop” or “sharp curve”, there are rare, unusual and even curious signs that are part of the country's road landscape.
- Golf SUV 'banned' in Brazil has leaked images! Volkswagen T-Roc is a global success, but the Brazilian market is left out of this star that outsells even the Tiguan
- Costing less than R$32, Toyota's classic car beats current models in the automotive market with a consumption of 12 km/L
- The 5 cars from Honda, Nissan, Fiat, Toyota and Ford that cost less than R$50 and get up to 12,2 km/L in 2025!
- Almost unharmed! This is what the world's only car with a stainless steel body looks like after colliding with an animal on the track at 120 km/h
Types of traffic signs and their basic meanings
In general, traffic signs are differentiated by color and shape. Those with a red border, for example, indicate restrictions and obligations.
When they show a circle crossed by a line, they signal prohibitions, such as the famous “No passing".
Yellow signs serve as a warning for situations of imminent risk, and are known as vertical warning signs.
Ten unusual signs and their meanings
On Brazilian roads, yellow signs warning of sharp curves or animals on the road are common. However, there are rarer signs that often surprise even very experienced drivers. Here are some examples of rarely seen signs and their functions in traffic.
Crosswind (A-44)
This sign warns of stretches where there is an incidence of strong side winds. This type of wind can compromise the stability of vehicles, especially trucks and buses, requiring extra attention.
Successive opposite junctions (A-11a and A-11b)
Indicates that there are intersections close to each other, something common on roads that connect urban and rural areas. The driver must reduce speed and be aware of vehicles moving in both directions.
Gravel Projection (A-29)
Used to warn of areas where gravel or other loose materials may be thrown at vehicles. This type of signage is most common on unpaved roads or in construction areas.
Movable bridge (A-23)
Alerts you to the presence of a movable bridge ahead, which may temporarily interrupt the flow of vehicles. This type of bridge is common in port areas or near navigable rivers.
Barrier-free level crossing (A-39)
Warns of railway crossings that do not have protective barriers. This is a crucial sign in rural and suburban areas.
Customs (R-21)
Indicates the presence of a customs agency, where a stop is mandatory. This sign is seen in border areas or dry ports.
7. Handcarts prohibited from driving (R-40)
Uncommon in urban areas, this sign prohibits the circulation of handcars in certain sections, generally for safety reasons or to maintain traffic flow.
Mandatory use of current (R-22)
Mandatory signage on roads where the use of chains on the wheels is essential, such as in regions with snow, mud or bogs. In Brazil, it is more common in mountainous areas or rural.
Curiosities about the traffic signs
In addition to their practical functions, these signs reflect the particularities of Brazilian roads. Many are adapted to local conditions, such as stretches subject to strong winds or areas where interaction with the railway is frequent.
Even though they are less visible, these signs are essential to ensure safety and traffic organization in specific situations.
The diversity of signs also shows the complexity of highways in Brazil. From urban intersections to remote roads, each stretch requires attention and knowledge. Drivers should familiarize themselves with these signs to avoid surprises and ensure a safer trip.
This type of information is very good, because many drivers do not try to keep themselves updated and many have no idea how important it is to obtain this knowledge.