FAQ

LETTER VISIBILITY CHART 

MAXIMUM
READABLE
DISTANCE 
READABLE
DISTANCE
FOR MAXIMUM
IMPACT 
 LETTER
HEIGHT

 100'

 30'

 3"

 150'

 40'

 4"

 200'

 60'

 6"

 350'

 80'

 8"

 400'

 90'

 9"

 450'

 100'

 10"

 525'

 120'

 12"

 630'

 150'

 15"

 750'

 180'

 18"

 1000'

 240'

 24"

 1250'

 300'

 30"

 1500'

 360'

 36"

 1750'

 420'

 42"

 2000'

 480'

 48"

 2250'

 540'

 54"

 2500'

 600'

 60"

 

How to determine the maximum readable distance
of letters and numbers.

This letter visibility chart has been made for you based on information provided by the California Institute of Technology. 
The calculations are based on an externally (naturally) lighted sign with all upper case Helvetica letters utilizing optimal negative space. Factors that may affect required letter size are: color scheme, font selection, traffic and weather conditions, or sign standoff. The stronger the contrast between the colors of your background and your letters, the better the visibility. 
 

Buythesign.com
1-800-644-2044
2404 43RD AVE. WEST
BRADENTON, FLORIDA 34205
copyright www.buythesign.com 2008. All rights reserved.