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Official United States Do Not Block Intersection Road Sign

Federal MUTCD Specifications

Standard Code
R10-7
Sign Category
Regulatory
Shape
Vertical Rectangle
Color Scheme
White with 'DO NOT BLOCK INTERSECTION' Text

Regulatory Road Sign (R10-7)

Do Not Block Intersection Sign Meaning & Driving Rules

Prohibits entering an intersection unless there is sufficient room on the opposite side to clear completely.

Required Driver Action & Right-of-Way Protocol

Wait behind the stop line on green until you see enough clear space across the intersection for your entire car.

Detailed Overview & Purpose

The Do Not Block Intersection sign (R10-7) enforces anti-gridlock laws ('Don't Block the Box'). Even if your traffic light is green, you must NOT enter the intersection unless trailing traffic has cleared enough space for your entire vehicle on the other side.

Key Standard & Origin: Known as 'Don't Block the Box' in cities like New York and San Francisco, often painted with giant yellow X's on the asphalt.

Where You'll Find This Sign

Congested downtown intersections, freeway interchange exits, and railroad-adjacent streets.

Common Driver Mistakes to Avoid

Entering the intersection on green and getting stuck in the middle when the light turns red, blocking cross-traffic.

How This Sign Appears on the DMV Knowledge & Road Test

Critical gridlock prevention and intersection right-of-way question.

Legal Penalties and Moving Violations

Blocking the box carries heavy traffic fines ($150–$500) and points in major metropolitan areas.

DMV Knowledge Check

When you encounter the official Do Not Block Intersection (R10-7) on a roadway, what is your legal duty?

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