QR Code Size for Outdoor Signs & Billboards
Outdoor viewing distances are much larger than indoor environments. This guide gives you the exact size requirements for storefront windows, yard signs, sidewalk boards, and billboards.
The Short Answer for Outdoor Scanning
Use the long-distance sizing rule:
QR Code Height ≈ Viewing Distance ÷ 8
Outdoors, glare, distance, and movement all reduce scan reliability. Larger sizing compensates for harsh conditions.
Use the Distance-Based QR Calculator
For storefronts, parking lots, sidewalk boards, and large signage, use the minimum size calculator.
Minimum QR Code Size CalculatorSun glare and reflections can reduce scanning accuracy. Oversizing the QR code is the safest approach.
Recommended QR Code Sizes for Outdoor Use
Storefront Windows
Distance: 5–15 ft
QR Size: 6–12 inches (15–30 cm)
Works for sidewalk traffic and walk-up scanning.
Sidewalk / A-Frame Signs
Distance: 3–10 ft
QR Size: 4–8 inches (10–20 cm)
Best for street-level promotions and menus.
Yard Signs
Distance: 5–20 ft
QR Size: 6–12 inches (15–30 cm)
Cars passing slowly can still scan if large enough.
Outdoor Posters
Distance: 6–15 ft
QR Size: 8–12 inches (20–30 cm)
Go larger in bright daylight.
Parking Lot Signs
Distance: 10–40 ft
QR Size: 12–36 inches (30–90 cm)
Cars scanning from distance need oversized QRs.
Billboards
Distance: 50–300 ft
QR Size: 3–6 feet tall
Drivers only have seconds. Make QR codes massive.
Outdoor QR Code Best Practices
Max Contrast
Sunlight reduces contrast. Use black on white, bold outlines, and avoid transparency.
Add a Light-Colored Padding Box
Outdoor backgrounds are busy. A white box helps phones lock onto the QR pattern instantly.
Design for Movement
Pedestrians and cars move quickly. Use a strong CTA like “SCAN NOW”.
Test at Full Distance
Print a sample, tape it to a wall, walk the real distance, and try scanning.
Create Outdoor-Ready QR Codes
Dynamic QR codes let you update destinations without reprinting outdoor materials.
Create a QR CodeRelated Size Guides
Indoor sizing guide.
Distance-based calculations.
Optimized for yard sign scans.