MUTCD R3-11: Preferential Lane Operation Signs

The R3-11 sign is covered in Section 2G.05 of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, 11th Edition. Below are the provisions from that section that describe when the sign is used and how it is placed.

What it means and when it is used

• Guidance · Recommended (should)
  Where the regulation is in effect during more than one time period of the day, such as during the morning and afternoon peak periods, the height of the R3-11 and R3-14 series signs should be suitably increased to accommodate the additional line(s) of legend.
• Standard · Required (shall)
  When used, the post-mounted Preferential Lane Operation (R3-11 series) signs shall be located adjacent to the preferential lane, and the overhead Preferential Lane Operation (R3-14 series) signs shall be mounted directly over the lane.

Placement and mounting

• Support · Information
  The standardized sizes of post-mounted Preferential Lane Operation (R3-11 series) signs are consistent to accommodate any future addition or removal of a single line of legend for each sign. Each size accommodates two lines of legend for the times of day and days of week that the regulation is in effect. Consistent sign sizes are beneficial for agencies when ordering sign materials, as well as when making legend…
• Standard · Required (shall)
  The legend format of the post-mounted Preferential Lane Operation (R3-11 series) signs shall have the following sequence: A. Top Lines: Lanes applicable, such as “RIGHT LANE” or “2 RIGHT LANES” B. Middle Lines: Eligible uses, such as “HOV 2+ ONLY” (or 3+ or 4+, if appropriate) or “BUSES ONLY” or other applicable uses or eligible turning movements C. Bottom Lines: Applicable times and days, such as “7 AM – 9 AM” or…
• Standard · Required (shall)
  The legend format of the overhead Preferential Lane Operation (R3-14 series) signs shall have the following sequence: A. Top Lines: Eligible uses, such as “HOV 2+ ONLY” (or 3+ or 4+, if appropriate) or “BUSES ONLY” or other applicable uses or eligible turning movements B. Bottom Lines: Applicable times and days, with the time and day placed above the down arrow, such as “7 AM – 9 AM” or “6:30 AM – 9:30 AM, MON-FRI.”…

Where to read the rest

• Full text: MUTCD Section 2G.05: Preferential Lane Operation Signs
• Mounting height, lateral offset and retroreflectivity for any sign: MUTCD sign placement guide

Related signs in Section 2G.05