MUTCD R3-9e: Reversible Lane Control Signs

The R3-9e sign is covered in Section 2B.34 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

• Option · Permitted (may)
  A reversible lane may be used for through traffic (with left turns either permitted or prohibited) in alternating directions during different periods of the day, and the lane may be used for exclusive left turns in one or both directions during other periods of the day as well. Reversible Lane Control (R3-9e through R3-9i) signs (see Figure 2B-6) may be either static type or changeable message type. These signs may…
• Standard · Required (shall)
  Where it is determined by an engineering study that lane-use control signals or physical barriers are not necessary, the lane shall be controlled by overhead Reversible Lane Control signs (see Fig ure 2B-7 ).

Placement and mounting

• Standard · Required (shall)
  Post-mounted Reversible Lane Control signs shall be used only as a supplement to overhead signs or signals. Post-mounted signs shall be identical in design to the overhead signs and an additional legend such as CENTER LANE shall be added to the top of the sign (R3-9f) to indicate which lane is controlled.
• Standard · Required (shall)
  A Reversible Lane Control sign shall be mounted over the approximate center of the lane that is being reversed.
• Standard · Required (shall)
  If the vertical or horizontal alignment is curved to the degree that a driver would be unable to see at least one sign, and preferably two signs, then additional overhead signs shall be installed. The placement of the signs shall be such that the driver will have a definite indication of the lanes specifically reserved for use at any given time. Special consideration shall be given to major generators introducing…

Where to read the rest

• Full text: MUTCD Section 2B.34: Reversible Lane Control Signs
• Minimum sign sizes by roadway type are in the size section for this chapter: Section 2B.03
• Mounting height, lateral offset and retroreflectivity for any sign: MUTCD sign placement guide

Related signs in Section 2B.34