PART 3.

MARKINGS
CHAPTER 3A. GENERAL
Section 3A.01 Functions and Limitations
Section 3A.02 Standardization of Application
Section 3A.03 Maintaining Minimum Pavement Marking Retroreflectivity
Section 3A.04 Materials
Section 3A.05 Colors
Section 3A.06 Functions, Widths, and Patterns of Longitudinal Pavement Markings
CHAPTER 3B. PAVEMENT AND CURB MARKINGS
Section 3B.01 Yellow Center Line Pavement Markings and Warrants
Section 3B.02 No-Passing Zone Pavement Markings and Warrants
Section 3B.03 Other Yellow Longitudinal Pavement Markings
Section 3B.04 White Lane Line Pavement Markings and Warrants
Section 3B.05 Other White Longitudinal Pavement Markings
Section 3B.06 Edge Line Pavement Markings
Section 3B.07 Warrants for Use of Edge Lines
Section 3B.08 Extensions Through Intersections or Interchanges
Section 3B.09 Lane-Reduction Transition Markings
Section 3B.10 Approach Markings for Obstructions
Section 3B.11 Raised Pavement Markers – General
Section 3B.12 Raised Pavement Markers as Vehicle Positioning Guides with Other Longitudinal Markings
Section 3B.13 Raised Pavement Markers Supplementing Other Markings
Section 3B.14 Raised Pavement Markers Substituting for Pavement Markings
Section 3B.15 Transverse Markings
Section 3B.16 Stop and Yield Lines
Section 3B.17 Do Not Block Intersection Markings
Section 3B.18 Crosswalk Markings
Section 3B.19 Parking Space Markings
Section 3B.20 Pavement Word, Symbol, and Arrow Markings
Section 3B.21 Speed Measurement Markings
Section 3B.22 Speed Reduction Markings
Section 3B.23 Curb Markings
Section 3B.24 Chevron and Diagonal Crosshatch Markings
Section 3B.25 Speed Hump Markings
Section 3B.26 Advance Speed Hump Markings
CHAPTER 3C. ROUNDABOUT MARKINGS
Section 3C.01 General
Section 3C.02 White Lane Line Pavement Markings for Roundabouts
Section 3C.03 Edge Line Pavement Markings for Roundabout Circulatory Roadways
Section 3C.04 Yield Lines for Roundabouts
Section 3C.05 Crosswalk Markings at Roundabouts
Section 3C.06 Word, Symbol, and Arrow Pavement Markings for Roundabouts
Section 3C.07 Markings for Other Circular Intersections
CHAPTER 3D. MARKINGS FOR PREFERENTIAL LANES
Section 3D.01 Preferential Lane Word and Symbol Markings
Section 3D.02 Preferential Lane Longitudinal Markings for Motor Vehicles
CHAPTER 3E. MARKINGS FOR TOLL PLAZAS
Section 3E.01 Markings for Toll Plazas
CHAPTER 3F. DELINEATORS
Section 3F.01 Delineators
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Section 3F.02 Delineator Design
Section 3F.03 Delineator Application
Section 3F.04 Delineator Placement and Spacing
CHAPTER 3G. COLORED PAVEMENTS
Section 3G.01 General
CHAPTER 3H. CHANNELIZING DEVICES USED FOR EMPHASIS OF PAVEMENT
MARKING PATTERNS
Section 3H.01 Channelizing Devices
CHAPTER 3I. ISLANDS
Section 3I.01 General
Section 3I.02 Approach-End Treatment
Section 3I.03 Island Marking Application
Section 3I.04 Island Marking Colors
Section 3I.05 Island Delineation
Section 3I.06 Pedestrian Islands and Medians
CHAPTER 3J. RUMBLE STRIP MARKINGS
Section 3J.01 Longitudinal Rumble Strip Markings
Section 3J.02 Transverse Rumble Strip Markings

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 CHAPTER 3A. GENERAL
Section 3A.01 Functions and Limitations
Support:
1 Markings on highways and on private roads open to public travel have important functions in providing guidance
and information for the road user. Major marking types include pavement and curb markings, delineators, colored
pavements, channelizing devices, and islands. In some cases, markings are used to supplement other traffic control
devices such as signs, signals, and other markings. In other instances, markings are used alone to effectively convey
regulations, guidance, or warnings in ways not obtainable by the use of other devices.
2 Markings have limitations. Visibility of the markings can be limited by snow, debris, and water on or adjacent to the
markings. Marking durability is affected by material characteristics, traffic volumes, weather, and location.
However, under most highway conditions, markings provide important information while allowing minimal
diversion of attention from the roadway.
Section 3A.02 Standardization of Application
Standard:
1 Each standard marking shall be used only to convey the meaning prescribed for that marking in this Manual.
When used for applications not described in this Manual, markings shall conform in all respects to the
principles and standards set forth in this Manual.
Guidance:
2 Before any new highway, private road open to public travel (see definition in Section 1A.13), paved detour, or
temporary route is opened to public travel, all necessary markings should be in place.
Standard:
3 Markings that must be visible at night shall be retroreflective unless ambient illumination assures that the
markings are adequately visible. All markings on Interstate highways shall be retroreflective.
4 Markings that are no longer applicable for roadway conditions or restrictions and that might cause confusion
for the road user shall be removed or obliterated to be unidentifiable as a marking as soon as practical.
Option:
5 Until they can be removed or obliterated, markings may be temporarily masked with tape that is approximately the
same color as the pavement.
Section 3A.03 Maintaining Minimum Pavement Marking Retroreflectivity
1 (This Section is reserved for future text based on FHWA rulemaking.)
Section 3A.04 Materials
Support:
1 Pavement and curb markings are commonly placed by using paints or thermoplastics; however, other suitable
marking materials, including raised pavement markers and colored pavements, are also used. Delineators and
channelizing devices are visibly placed in a vertical position similar to signs above the roadway.
2 Some marking systems consist of clumps or droplets of material with visible open spaces of bare pavement between
the material droplets. These marking systems can function in a manner that is similar to the marking systems that
completely cover the pavement surface and are suitable for use as pavement markings if they meet the other
pavement marking requirements of the highway agency.
Guidance:
3 The materials used for markings should provide the specified color throughout their useful life.
4 Consideration should be given to selecting pavement marking materials that will minimize tripping or loss of
traction for road users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists.
5 Delineators should not present a vertical or horizontal clearance obstacle for pedestrians.
Section 3A.05 Colors
Standard:

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1 Markings shall be yellow, white, red, blue, or purple. The colors for markings shall conform to the standard
highway colors. Black in conjunction with one of the colors mentioned in the first sentence of this paragraph
shall be a usable color.
2 When used, white markings for longitudinal lines shall delineate:
A. The separation of traffic flows in the same direction, or
B. The right-hand edge of the roadway.
3 When used, yellow markings for longitudinal lines shall delineate:
A. The separation of traffic traveling in opposite directions,
B. The left-hand edge of the roadways of divided highways and one-way streets or ramps, or
C. The separation of two-way left-turn lanes and reversible lanes from other lanes.
4 When used, red raised pavement markers or delineators shall delineate:
A. Truck escape ramps, or
B. One-way roadways, ramps, or travel lanes that shall not be entered or used in the direction from
which the markers are visible.
5 When used, blue markings shall supplement white markings for parking spaces for persons with disabilities.
6 When used, purple markings shall supplement lane line or edge line markings for toll plaza approach lanes
that are restricted to use only by vehicles with registered electronic toll collection accounts.
Option:
7 Colors used for official route shield signs (see Section 2D.11) may be used as colors of symbol markings to simulate
route shields on the pavement (see Section 3B.20).
8 Black may be used in combination with the colors mentioned in the first sentence of Paragraph 1 where a light-
colored pavement does not provide sufficient contrast with the markings.
Support:
9 When used in combination with other colors, black is not considered a marking color, but only a contrast-enhancing
system for the markings.
Section 3A.06 Functions, Widths, and Patterns of Longitudinal Pavement Markings
Standard:
1 The general functions of longitudinal lines shall be:
A. A double line indicates maximum or special restrictions,
B. A solid line discourages or prohibits crossing (depending on the specific application),
C. A broken line indicates a permissive condition, and
D. A dotted line provides guidance or warning of a downstream change in lane function.
2 The widths and patterns of longitudinal lines shall be as follows:
A. Normal line—4 to 6 inches wide.
B. Wide line—at least twice the width of a normal line.
C. Double line—two parallel lines separated by a discernible space.
D. Broken line—normal line segments separated by gaps.
E. Dotted line—noticeably shorter line segments separated by shorter gaps than used for a broken line.
The width of a dotted line extension shall be at least the same as the width of the line it extends.
Support:
3 The width of the line indicates the degree of emphasis.
Guidance:
4 Broken lines should consist of 10-foot line segments and 30-foot gaps, or dimensions in a similar ratio of line
segments to gaps as appropriate for traffic speeds and need for delineation.
Support:
5 Patterns for dotted lines depend on the application (see Sections 3B.04 and 3B.08.)
Guidance:
6 A dotted line for line extensions within an intersection or taper area should consist of 2-foot line segments and 2- to
6-foot gaps. A dotted line used as a lane line should consist of 3-foot line segments and 9-foot gaps.

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 CHAPTER 3B. PAVEMENT AND CURB MARKINGS
Section 3B.01 Yellow Center Line Pavement Markings and Warrants
Standard:
1 Center line pavement markings, when used, shall be the pavement markings used to delineate the separation
of traffic lanes that have opposite directions of travel on a roadway and shall be yellow.
Option:
2 Center line pavement markings may be placed at a location that is not the geometric center of the roadway.
3 On roadways without continuous center line pavement markings, short sections may be marked with center line
pavement markings to control the position of traffic at specific locations, such as around curves, over hills, on
approaches to grade crossings, at grade crossings, and at bridges.
Standard:
4 The center line markings on two-lane, two-way roadways shall be one of the following as shown in Figure 3B-
1:
A. Two-direction passing zone markings consisting of a normal broken yellow line where crossing the
center line markings for passing with care is permitted for traffic traveling in either direction;
B. One-direction no-passing zone markings consisting of a double yellow line, one of which is a normal
broken yellow line and the other is a normal solid yellow line, where crossing the center line markings
for passing with care is permitted for the traffic traveling adjacent to the broken line, but is
prohibited for traffic traveling adjacent to the solid line; or
C. Two-direction no-passing zone markings consisting of two normal solid yellow lines where crossing
the center line markings for passing is prohibited for traffic traveling in either direction.
5 A single solid yellow line shall not be used as a center line marking on a two-way roadway.
6 The center line markings on undivided two-way roadways with four or more lanes for moving motor vehicle
traffic always available shall be the two-direction no-passing zone markings consisting of a solid double yellow
line as shown in Figure 3B-2.
Guidance:
7 On two-way roadways with three through lanes for moving motor vehicle traffic, two lanes should be designated for
traffic in one direction by using one- or two-direction no-passing zone markings as shown in Figure 3B-3.
Support:
8 Sections 11-301(c) and 11-311(c) of the “Uniform Vehicle Code (UVC)” contain information regarding left turns
across center line no-passing zone markings and paved medians, respectively. The UVC can be obtained from the
National Committee on Uniform Traffic Laws and Ordinances at the address shown on Page i.

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 Standard:
9 Center line markings shall be placed on all paved urban arterials and collectors that have a traveled way of 20
feet or more in width and an ADT of 6,000 vehicles per day or greater. Center line markings shall also be
placed on all paved two-way streets or highways that have three or more lanes for moving motor vehicle
traffic.
Guidance:
10 Center line markings should be placed on paved urban arterials and collectors that have a traveled way of 20 feet or
more in width and an ADT of 4,000 vehicles per day or greater. Center line markings should also be placed on all
rural arterials and collectors that have a traveled way of 18 feet or more in width and an ADT of 3,000 vehicles per
day or greater. Center line markings should also be placed on other traveled ways where an engineering study
indicates such a need.
11 Engineering judgment should be used in determining whether to place center line markings on traveled ways that
are less than 16 feet wide because of the potential for traffic encroaching on the pavement edges, traffic being
affected by parked vehicles, and traffic encroaching into the opposing traffic lane.
Option:
12 Center line markings may be placed on other paved two-way traveled ways that are 16 feet or more in width.
13 If a traffic count is not available, the ADTs described in this Section may be estimates that are based on engineering
judgment.
Section 3B.02 No-Passing Zone Pavement Markings and Warrants
Standard:
1 No-passing zones shall be marked by either the one direction no-passing zone pavement markings or the two-
direction no-passing zone pavement markings described in Section 3B.01 and shown in Figures 3B-1 and 3B-
3.
Table 3B-1. Minimum Passing Sight Distances for
2 When center line markings are used, no-passing No-Passing Zone Markings
zone markings shall be used on two-way 85th-Percentile or Posted or Minimum Passing Sight
roadways at lane-reduction transitions (see Statutory Speed Limit Distance
Section 3B.09) and on approaches to 25 mph 450 feet
obstructions that must be passed on the right 30 mph 500 feet
(see Section 3B.10). 35 mph 550 feet
40 mph 600 feet
3 On two-way, two- or three-lane roadways where 45 mph 700 feet
center line markings are installed, no-passing 50 mph 800 feet
zones shall be established at vertical and 55 mph 900 feet
horizontal curves and other locations where an 60 mph 1,000 feet
engineering study indicates that passing must be 65 mph 1,100 feet
70 mph 1,200 feet
prohibited because of inadequate sight distances
or other special conditions.

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4 On roadways with center line markings, no-passing zone markings shall be used at horizontal or vertical
curves where the passing sight distance is less than the minimum shown in Table 3B-1 for the 85th-percentile
speed or the posted or statutory speed limit. The passing sight distance on a vertical curve is the distance at
which an object 3.5 feet above the pavement surface can be seen from a point 3.5 feet above the pavement (see
Figure 3B-4). Similarly, the passing sight distance on a horizontal curve is the distance measured along the
center line (or right-hand lane line of a three-lane roadway) between two points 3.5 feet above the pavement
on a line tangent to the embankment or other obstruction that cuts off the view on the inside of the curve (see
Figure 3B-4).

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 Support:
5 The upstream end of a no-passing zone at point “a” in Figure 3B-4 is that point where the sight distance first
becomes less than that specified in Table 3B-1. The downstream end of the no-passing zone at point “b” in Figure
3B-4 is that point at which the sight distance again becomes greater than the minimum specified.
6 The values of the minimum passing sight distances that are shown in Table 3B-1 are for operational use in marking
no-passing zones and are less than the values that are suggested for geometric design by the AASHTO Policy on
Geometric Design of Streets and Highways (see Section 1A.11).
Guidance:
7 Where the distance between successive no-passing zones is less than 400 feet, no-passing markings should connect
the zones.
Standard:
8 Where center line markings are used, no-passing zone markings shall be used on approaches to grade
crossings in compliance with Section 8B.27.
Option:
9 In addition to pavement markings, no-passing zone signs (see Sections 2B.28, 2B.29, and 2C.45) may be used to
emphasize the existence and extent of a no-passing zone.
Support:
10 Section 11-307 of the “Uniform Vehicle Code (UVC)” contains further information regarding required road user
behavior in no-passing zones. The UVC can be obtained from the National Committee on Uniform Traffic Laws
and Ordinances at the address shown on Page i.
Standard:
11 On three-lane roadways where the direction of travel in the center lane transitions from one direction to the
other, a no-passing buffer zone shall be provided in the center lane as shown in Figure 3B-5. A lane-reduction
transition (see Section 3B.09) shall be provided at each end of the buffer zone.
12 The buffer zone shall be a flush median island formed by two sets of double yellow center line markings that
is at least 50 feet in length.
Option:
13 Yellow diagonal crosshatch markings (see Section 3B.24) may be placed in the flush median area between the two
sets of no-passing zone markings as shown in Figure 3B-5.
Guidance:
14 For three-lane roadways having a posted or statutory speed limit of 45 mph or greater, the lane transition taper
length should be computed by the formula L = WS. For roadways where the posted or statutory speed limit is less
than 45 mph, the formula L = WS2/60 should be used to compute the taper length.
Support:
15 Under both formulas, L equals the taper length in feet, W equals the width of the center lane or offset distance in
feet, and S equals the 85th-percentile speed or the posted or statutory speed limit, whichever is higher.
Guidance:
16 The minimum lane transition taper length should be 100 feet in urban areas and 200 feet in rural areas.

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 Section 3B.03 Other Yellow Longitudinal Pavement Markings
Standard:
1 If reversible lanes are used, the lane line pavement markings on each side of reversible lanes shall consist of a
normal broken double yellow line to delineate the edge of a lane in which the direction of travel is reversed
from time to time, such that each of these markings serve as the center line markings of the roadway during
some period (see Figure 3B-6).

2 Signs (see Section 2B.26), lane-use control signals (see Chapter 4M), or both shall be used to supplement
reversible lane pavement markings.
3 If a two-way left-turn lane that is never operated as a reversible lane is used, the lane line pavement markings
on each side of the two-way left-turn lane shall consist of a normal broken yellow line and a normal solid
yellow line to delineate the edges of a lane that can be used by traffic in either direction as part of a left-turn
maneuver. These markings shall be placed with the broken line toward the two-way left-turn lane and the
solid line toward the adjacent traffic lane as shown in Figure 3B-7.
In Figure 3B-7, a yellow taper shall connect the yellow two-way left turn markings to the centerline for traffic
heading into a designated left turn lane. All two-way markings shall be carried through minor intersections.
Guidance:
4 White two-way left-turn lane-use arrows (see Figure 3B-7), should be used in conjunction with the longitudinal two-
way left-turn markings at the locations described in Section 3B.20.
5 Signs should be used in conjunction with the two-way left turn markings (see Section 2B.24).
Standard:
6 If a continuous flush median island formed by pavement markings separating travel in opposite directions is
used, two sets of solid double yellow lines shall be used to form the island as shown in Figures 3B-2 and 3B-5.
Other markings in the median island area shall also be yellow, except crosswalk markings which shall be
white (see Section 3B.18).

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 Section 3B.04 White Lane Line Pavement Markings and Warrants
Standard:
1 When used, lane line pavement markings delineating the separation of traffic lanes that have the same
direction of travel shall be white.
2 Lane line markings shall be used on all freeways and Interstate highways.
Guidance:
3 Lane line markings should be used on all roadways that are intended to operate with two or more adjacent traffic
lanes in the same direction of travel, except as otherwise required for reversible lanes. Lane line markings should

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 also be used at congested locations where the roadway will accommodate more traffic lanes with lane line markings
than without the markings.
Support:
4 Examples of lane line markings are shown in Figures 3B-2, 3B-3, and 3B-7 through 3B-13.
Standard:
5 Except as provided in Paragraph 6, where crossing the lane line markings with care is permitted, the lane line
markings shall consist of a normal broken white line.
6 A dotted white line marking shall be used as the lane line to separate a through lane that continues beyond the
interchange or intersection from an adjacent lane for any of the following conditions:
A. A deceleration or acceleration lane,
B. A through lane that becomes a mandatory exit or turn lane,
C. An auxiliary lane 2 miles or less in length between an entrance ramp and an exit ramp, or
D. An auxiliary lane 1 mile or less in length between two adjacent intersections.
7 For exit ramps with a parallel deceleration lane, a normal width dotted white lane line shall be installed from
the upstream end of the full-width deceleration lane to the theoretical gore or to the upstream end of a solid
white lane line, if used, that extends upstream from the theoretical gore as shown in Drawings A and C of
Figure 3B-8.
Option:
8 For exit ramps with a parallel deceleration lane, a normal width dotted white line extension may be installed in the
taper area upstream from the full-width deceleration lane as shown in Drawings A and C of Figure 3B-8.
9 For an exit ramp with a tapered deceleration lane, a normal width dotted white line extension may be installed from
the theoretical gore through the taper area such that it meets the edge line at the upstream end of the taper as shown
in Drawing B of Figure 3B-8.

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 Standard:
10 For entrance ramps with a parallel acceleration lane, a normal width dotted white lane line shall be installed
from the theoretical gore or from the downstream end of a solid white lane line, if used, that extends
downstream from the theoretical gore, to a point at least one-half the distance from the theoretical gore to the
downstream end of the acceleration taper, as shown in Drawing A of Figure 3B-9.

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 Option:
11 For entrance ramps with a parallel acceleration lane, a normal width dotted white line extension may be installed
from the downstream end of the dotted white lane line to the downstream end of the acceleration taper, as shown in
Drawing A of Figure 3B-9.
12 For entrance ramps with a tapered acceleration lane, a normal width dotted white line extension may be installed
from the downstream end of the channelizing line adjacent to the through lane to the downstream end of the
acceleration taper, as shown in Drawings B and C of Figure 3B-9.
Standard:
13 A wide dotted white lane line shall be used:

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 A. As a lane drop marking in advance of lane drops at exit ramps to distinguish a lane drop from a
normal exit ramp (see Drawings A, B, and C of Figure 3B-10),
B. In advance of freeway route splits with dedicated lanes (see Drawing D of Figure 3B-10),
C. To separate a through lane that continues beyond an interchange from an adjacent auxiliary lane
between an entrance ramp and an exit ramp (see Drawing E of Figure 3B-10),
D. As a lane drop marking in advance of lane drops at intersections to distinguish a lane drop from an
intersection through lane (see Drawing A of Figure 3B-11), and
E. To separate a through lane that continues beyond an intersection from an adjacent auxiliary lane
between two intersections (see Drawing B of Figure 3B-11).

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 Guidance:
14 Lane drop markings used in advance of lane drops at freeway and expressway exit ramps should begin at least 1/2
mile in advance of the theoretical gore.
15 On the approach to a multi-lane exit ramp having an optional exit lane that also carries through traffic, lane line
markings should be used as illustrated in Drawing B of Figure 3B-10. In this case, if the right-most exit lane is an
added lane such as a parallel deceleration lane, the lane drop marking should begin at the upstream end of the full-
width deceleration lane, as shown in Drawing C of Figure 3B-8.

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16 Lane drop markings used in advance of lane drops at intersections should begin a distance in advance of the
intersection that is determined by engineering judgment as suitable to enable drivers who do not desire to make the
mandatory turn to move out of the lane being dropped prior to reaching the queue of vehicles that are waiting to
make the turn. The lane drop marking should begin no closer to the intersection than the most upstream regulatory
or warning sign associated with the lane drop.
17 The dotted white lane lines that are used for lane drop markings and that are used as a lane line separating through
lanes from auxiliary lanes should consist of line segments that are 3 feet in length separated by 9-foot gaps.
Support:
18 Section 3B.20 contains information regarding other markings that are associated with lane drops, such as lane-use
arrow markings and ONLY word markings.
19 Section 3B.09 contains information about the lane line markings that are to be used for transition areas where the
number of through lanes is reduced.
Standard:
20 Where crossing the lane line markings is discouraged, the lane line markings shall consist of a normal or wide
solid white line.
Option:
21 Where it is intended to discourage lane changing on the approach to an exit ramp, a wide solid white lane line may
extend upstream from the theoretical gore or, for multi-lane exits, as shown in Drawing B of Figure 3B-10, for a
distance that is determined by engineering judgment.
22 Where lane changes might cause conflicts, a wide or normal solid white lane line may extend upstream from an
intersection.
23 In the case of a lane drop at an exit ramp or intersection, such a solid white line may replace a portion, but not all of
the length of the wide dotted white lane line.
Guidance:
24 On approaches to intersections, a solid white lane line marking should be used to separate a through lane from an
added mandatory turn lane.
Option:
25 On approaches to intersections, solid white lane line markings may be used to separate adjacent through lanes or
adjacent mandatory turn lanes from each other.
26 Where the median width allows the left-turn lanes to be separated from the through lanes to give drivers on opposing
approaches a less obstructed view of opposing through traffic, white pavement markings may be used to form
channelizing islands as shown in Figure 2B-17.
27 Solid white lane line markings may be used to separate through traffic lanes from auxiliary lanes, such as an added
uphill truck lane or a preferential lane (see Section 3D.02).
28 Wide solid lane line markings may be used for greater emphasis.
Standard:
29 Where crossing the lane line markings is prohibited, the lane line markings shall consist of a solid double
white line (see Figure 3B-12).

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 Section 3B.05 Other White Longitudinal Pavement Markings
Standard:
1 A channelizing line shall be a solid wide or double white line.
Option:
2 Channelizing lines may be used to form channelizing islands where traffic traveling in the same direction is
permitted on both sides of the island.
Standard:
3 Other pavement markings in the channelizing island area shall be white.
Support:
4 Examples of channelizing line applications are shown in Figures 3B-8, 3B-9, and 3B-10, and in Drawing C of Figure
3B-15.
5 Channelizing lines at exit ramps as shown in Figures 3B-8 and 3B-10 define the neutral area, direct exiting traffic at
the proper angle for smooth divergence from the main lanes into the ramp, and reduce the probability of colliding
with objects adjacent to the roadway.
6 Channelizing lines at entrance ramps as shown in Figures 3B-9 and 3B-10 promote orderly and efficient merging
with the through traffic.
Standard:
7 For all exit ramps and for entrance ramps with parallel acceleration lanes, channelizing lines shall be placed
on both sides of the neutral area (see Figures 3B-8 and 3B-10 and Drawing A of Figure 3B-9).
8 For entrance ramps with tapered acceleration lanes, channelizing lines shall be placed along both sides of the
neutral area to a point at least one-half of the distance to the theoretical gore (see Drawing C of Figure 3B-9).
Option:
9 For entrance ramps with tapered acceleration lanes, the channelizing lines may extend to the theoretical gore as
shown in Drawing B of Figure 3B-9.
10 White chevron crosshatch markings (see Section 3B.24) may be placed in the neutral area of exit ramp and entrance
ramp gores for special emphasis as shown in Figures 3B-8 and 3B-10 and Drawing A of Figure 3B-9. The
channelizing lines and the optional chevron crosshatch markings at exit ramp and entrance ramp gores may be
supplemented with white retroreflective or internally illuminated raised pavement markers (see Sections 3B.11 and
3B.13) for enhanced nighttime visibility.
Section 3B.06 Edge Line Pavement Markings
Standard:
1 If used, edge line pavement markings shall delineate the right or left edges of a roadway.
2 Except for dotted edge line extensions (see Section 3B.08), edge line markings shall not be continued through
intersections or major driveways.
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 Edge line marking shall not continue through a signalized intersection/driveway.
Edge line marking shall not continue through a stop controlled intersection with a public road.
3 If used on the roadways of divided highways or one-way streets, or on any ramp in the direction of travel, left
edge line pavement markings shall consist of a normal solid yellow line to delineate the left-hand edge of a
roadway or to indicate driving or passing restrictions left of these markings.
4 If used, right edge line pavement markings shall consist of a normal solid white line to delineate the right-
hand edge of the roadway.
If used, right edge line pavement markings delineate the right-hand edge of the rightmost traffic lane.
Edge line marking shall continue through all driveways unless a full width turn lane has been provided.
Guidance:
5 Edge line markings should not be broken for minor driveways.
Support:
6 Edge line markings have unique value as visual references to guide road users during adverse weather and visibility
conditions.
Option:
7 Wide solid edge line markings may be used for greater emphasis.
Section 3B.07 Warrants for Use of Edge Lines
Standard:
1 Edge line markings shall be placed on paved streets or highways with the following characteristics:
A. Freeways,
B. Expressways, and
C. Rural arterials with a traveled way of 20 feet or more in width and an ADT of 6,000 vehicles per day
or greater.
Guidance:
2 Edge line markings should be placed on paved streets or highways with the following characteristics:
A. Rural arterials and collectors with a traveled way of 20 feet or more in width and an ADT of 3,000 vehicles
per day or greater.
B. On other paved streets and highways where an engineering study indicates a need for edge line markings.
3 Edge line markings should not be placed where an engineering study or engineering judgment indicates that
providing them is likely to decrease safety.
Option:
4 Edge line markings may be placed on streets and highways with or without center line markings.
5 Edge line markings may be excluded, based on engineering judgment, for reasons such as if the traveled way edges
are delineated by curbs, parking, or other markings.
6 If a bicycle lane is marked on the outside portion of the traveled way, the edge line that would mark the outside edge
of the bicycle lane may be omitted.
7 Edge line markings may be used where edge delineation is desirable to minimize unnecessary driving on paved
shoulders or on refuge areas that have lesser structural pavement strength than the adjacent roadway.
Section 3B.08 Extensions Through Intersections or Interchanges
Standard:
1 Except as provided in Paragraph 2, pavement markings extended into or continued through an intersection
or interchange area shall be the same color and at least the same width as the line markings they extend (see
Figure 3B-13).

2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 29 of 91 December 2009

2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 30 of 91 December 2009
 Option:
2 A normal line may be used to extend a wide line through an intersection.
Guidance:
3 Where highway design or reduced visibility conditions make it desirable to provide control or to guide vehicles
through an intersection or interchange, such as at offset, skewed, complex, or multi-legged intersections, on curved
roadways, where multiple turn lanes are used, or where offset left turn lanes might cause driver confusion, dotted
line extension markings consisting of 2-foot line segments and 2- to 6-foot gaps should be used to extend
longitudinal line markings through an intersection or interchange area.
Option:

2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 31 of 91 December 2009

4 Dotted edge line extensions may be placed through intersections or major driveways.
Guidance:
5 Where greater restriction is required, solid lane lines or channelizing lines should be extended into or continued
through intersections or major driveways.
Standard:
6 Solid lines shall not be used to extend edge lines into or through intersections or major driveways.
Guidance:
7 Where a double line is extended through an intersection, a single line of equal width to one of the lines of the double
line should be used.
8 To the extent possible, pavement marking extensions through intersections should be designed in a manner that
minimizes potential confusion for drivers in adjacent or opposing lanes.
Section 3B.09 Lane-Reduction Transition Markings
Support:
1 Lane-reduction transition markings are used where the number of through lanes is reduced because of narrowing of
the roadway or because of a section of on-street parking in what would otherwise be a through lane. Lane-reduction
transition markings are not used for lane drops.
Standard:
2 Except as provided in Paragraph 3, where pavement markings are used, lane-reduction transition markings
shall be used to guide traffic through transition areas where the number of through lanes is reduced, as shown
in Figure 3B-14. On two-way roadways, no-passing zone markings shall be used to prohibit passing in the
direction of the convergence, and shall continue through the transition area.

2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 32 of 91 December 2009

 Option:
3 On low-speed urban roadways where curbs clearly define the roadway edge in the lane-reduction transition, or where
a through lane becomes a parking lane, the edge line and/or delineators shown in Figure 3B-14 may be omitted as
determined by engineering judgment.
Guidance:
4 For roadways having a posted or statutory speed limit of 45 mph or greater, the transition taper length for a lane-
reduction transition should be computed by the formula L = WS. For roadways where the posted or statutory speed
limit is less than 45 mph, the formula L = WS2/60 should be used to compute the taper length.
Support:
5 Under both formulas, L equals the taper length in feet, W equals the width of the offset distance in feet, and S equals
the 85th-percentile speed or the posted or statutory speed limit, whichever is higher.
Guidance:
6 Where observed speeds exceed posted or statutory speed limits, longer tapers should be used.
Option:
7 On new construction, where no posted or statutory speed limit has been established, the design speed may be used in
the transition taper length formula.

2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 33 of 91 December 2009

 Guidance:
8 Lane line markings should be discontinued one-quarter of the distance between the Lane Ends sign (see Section
2C.42) and the point where the transition taper begins.
9 Except as provided in Paragraph 3 for low-speed urban roadways, the edge line markings shown in Figure 3B-14
should be installed from the location of the Lane Ends warning sign to beyond the beginning of the narrower
roadway.
Support:
10 Pavement markings at lane-reduction transitions supplement the standard signs. See Section 3B.20 for provisions
regarding use of lane-reduction arrows.
Section 3B.10 Approach Markings for Obstructions
Standard:
1 Pavement markings shall be used to guide traffic away from fixed obstructions within a paved roadway.
Approach markings for bridge supports, refuge islands, median islands, toll plaza islands, and raised
channelization islands shall consist of a tapered line or lines extending from the center line or the lane line to a
point 1 to 2 feet to the right-hand side, or to both sides, of the approach end of the obstruction (see Figure 3B-
15).

2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 34 of 91 December 2009

2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 35 of 91 December 2009
 Support:
2 See Chapter 3E for additional information on approach markings for toll plaza islands.
Guidance:
3 For roadways having a posted or statutory speed limit of 45 mph or greater, the taper length of the tapered line
markings should be computed by the formula L = WS. For roadways where the posted or statutory speed limit is
less than 45 mph, the formula L = WS2/60 should be used to compute the taper length.
Support:
4 Under both formulas, L equals the taper length in feet, W equals the width of the offset distance in feet, and S equals
the 85th-percentile speed or the posted or statutory speed limit, whichever is higher.
2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 36 of 91 December 2009
 Guidance:
5 The minimum taper length should be 100 feet in urban areas and 200 feet in rural areas.
Support:
6 Examples of approach markings for obstructions in the roadway are shown in Figure 3B-15.
Standard:
7 If traffic is required to pass only to the right of the obstruction, the markings shall consist of a two-direction
no-passing zone marking at least twice the length of the diagonal portion as determined by the appropriate
taper formula (see Drawing A of Figure 3B-15).
Option:
8 If traffic is required to pass only to the right of the obstruction, yellow diagonal crosshatch markings (see Section
3B.24) may be placed in the flush median area between the no-passing zone markings as shown in Drawings A and
B of Figure 3B-15. Other markings, such as yellow delineators, yellow channelizing devices, yellow raised
pavement markers, and white crosswalk pavement markings, may also be placed in the flush median area.
Standard:
9 If traffic can pass either to the right or left of the obstruction, the markings shall consist of two channelizing
lines diverging from the lane line, one to each side of the obstruction. In advance of the point of divergence, a
wide solid white line or normal solid double white line shall be extended in place of the broken lane line for a
distance equal to the length of the diverging lines (see Drawing C of Figure 3B-15).
Option:
10 If traffic can pass either to the right or left of the obstruction, additional white chevron crosshatch markings (see
Section 3B.24) may be placed in the flush median area between the channelizing lines as shown in Drawing C of
Figure 3B-15. Other markings, such as white delineators, white channelizing devices, white raised pavement
markers, and white crosswalk markings may also be placed in the flush median area.
Section 3B.11 Raised Pavement Markers – General
Standard:
1 The color of raised pavement markers under both daylight and nighttime conditions shall conform to the
color of the marking for which they serve as a positioning guide, or for which they supplement or substitute.
Option:
2 The side of a raised pavement marker that is visible to traffic proceeding in the wrong direction may be red (see
Section 3A.05).
3 Retroreflective or internally illuminated raised pavement markers may be used in the roadway immediately adjacent
to curbed approach ends of raised medians and curbs of islands, or on top of such curbs (see Section 3B.23).
Support:
4 Retroreflective and internally illuminated raised pavement markers are available in mono-directional and
bidirectional configurations. The bidirectional marker is capable of displaying the applicable color for each direction
of travel.
5 Blue raised pavement markers are sometimes used in the roadway to help emergency personnel locate fire hydrants.
Standard:
6 When used, internally illuminated raised pavement markers shall be steadily illuminated and shall not be
flashed.
Support:
7 Flashing raised pavement markers are considered to be In-Roadway Lights (see Chapter 4N).
Guidance:
8 Non-retroreflective raised pavement markers should not be used alone, without supplemental retroreflective or
internally illuminated markers, as a substitute for other types of pavement markings.
9 Directional configurations should be used to maximize correct information and to minimize confusing information
provided to the road user. Directional configurations also should be used to avoid confusion resulting from
visibility of markers that do not apply to the road user.

2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 37 of 91 December 2009

10 The spacing of raised pavement markers used to supplement or substitute for other types of longitudinal markings
should correspond with the pattern of broken lines for which the markers supplement or substitute.
Standard:
11 The value of N cited in Sections 3B.12 through 3B.14 for the spacing of raised pavement markers shall equal
the length of one line segment plus one gap of the broken lines used on the highway.
Option:
12 For additional emphasis, retroreflective raised pavement markers may be spaced closer than described in Sections
3B.12 through 3B.14, as determined by engineering judgment or engineering study.
Support:
13 Figures 9-20 through 9-22 in the “Traffic Control Devices Handbook” (see Section 1A.11) contain additional
information regarding the spacing of raised pavement markers on longitudinal markings.
Section 3B.12 Raised Pavement Markers as Vehicle Positioning Guides with Other Longitudinal
Markings
Option:
1 Retroreflective or internally illuminated raised pavement markers may be used as positioning guides with
longitudinal line markings without necessarily conveying information to the road user about passing or lane-use
restrictions. In such applications, markers may be positioned in line with or immediately adjacent to a single line
marking, or positioned between the two lines of a double center line or double lane line marking.
Guidance:
2 The spacing for such applications should be 2N, where N equals the length of one line segment plus one gap (see
Section 3B.11).
Option:
3 Where it is desired to alert the road user to changes in the travel path, such as on sharp curves or on transitions that
reduce the number of lanes or that shift traffic laterally, the spacing may be reduced to N or less.
4 On freeways and expressways, the spacing may be increased to 3N for relatively straight and level roadway
segments where engineering judgment indicates that such spacing will provide adequate delineation under wet night
conditions.
Section 3B.13 Raised Pavement Markers Supplementing Other Markings
Guidance:
1 The use of retroreflective or internally illuminated raised pavement markers for supplementing longitudinal line
markings should comply with the following:
A. Lateral Positioning
1. When supplementing double line markings, pairs of raised pavement markers placed laterally in line
with or immediately outside of the two lines should be used.
2. When supplementing wide line markings, pairs of raised pavement markers placed laterally adjacent to
each other should be used.
B. Longitudinal Spacing
1. When supplementing solid line markings, raised pavement markers at a spacing no greater than N (see
Section 3B.11) should be used, except that when supplementing channelizing lines or edge line
markings, a spacing of no greater than N/2 should be used.
2. When supplementing broken line markings, a spacing no greater than 3N should be used. However,
when supplementing broken line markings identifying reversible lanes, a spacing of no greater than N
should be used.
3. When supplementing dotted lane line markings, a spacing appropriate for the application should be
used.
4. When supplementing longitudinal line extension markings through at-grade intersections, one raised
pavement marker for each short line segment should be used.
5. When supplementing line extensions through freeway interchanges, a spacing of no greater than N
should be used.

2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 38 of 91 December 2009

2 Raised pavement markers should not supplement right-hand edge lines unless an engineering study or engineering
judgment indicates the benefits of enhanced delineation of a curve or other location would outweigh possible
impacts on bicycles using the shoulder, and the spacing of raised pavement markers on the right-hand edge is close
enough to avoid misinterpretation as a broken line during wet night conditions.
Option:
3 Raised pavement markers also may be used to supplement other markings such as channelizing islands, gore areas,
approaches to obstructions, or wrong-way arrows.
4 To improve the visibility of horizontal curves, center lines may be supplemented with retroreflective or internally
illuminated raised pavement markers for the entire curved section as well as for a distance in advance of the curve
that approximates 5 seconds of travel time.
Section 3B.14 Raised Pavement Markers Substituting for Pavement Markings
Option:
1 Retroreflective or internally illuminated raised pavement markers, or non-retroreflective raised pavement markers
supplemented by retroreflective or internally illuminated markers, may be substituted for markings of other types.
Guidance:
2 If used, the pattern of the raised pavement markers should simulate the pattern of the markings for which they
substitute.
Standard:
3 If raised pavement markers are used to substitute for broken line markings, a group of three to five markers
equally spaced at a distance no greater than N/8 (see Section 3B.11) shall be used. If N is other than 40 feet,
the markers shall be equally spaced over the line segment length (at 1/2 points for three markers, at 1/3 points
for four markers, and at 1/4 points for five markers). At least one retroreflective or internally illuminated
marker per group shall be used or a retroreflective or internally illuminated marker shall be installed
midway in each gap between successive groups of non-retroreflective markers.
4 When raised pavement markers substitute for solid line markings, the markers shall be equally spaced at no
greater than N/4, with retroreflective or internally illuminated units at a spacing no greater than N/2.
Guidance:
5 Raised pavement markers should not substitute for right-hand edge line markings unless an engineering study or
engineering judgment indicates the benefits of enhanced delineation of a curve or other location would outweigh
possible impacts on bicycles using the shoulder, and the spacing of raised pavement markers on the right-hand edge
line is close enough to avoid misinterpretation as a broken line during wet night conditions.
Standard:
6 When raised pavement markers substitute for dotted lines, they shall be spaced at no greater than N/4, with
not less than one raised pavement marker per dotted line segment. At least one raised marker every N shall
be retroreflective or internally illuminated.
Option:
7 When substituting for wide lines, raised pavement markers may be placed laterally adjacent to each other to simulate
the width of the line.
Section 3B.15 Transverse Markings
Standard:
1 Transverse markings, which include shoulder markings, word and symbol markings, arrows, stop lines, yield
lines, crosswalk lines, speed measurement markings, speed reduction markings, speed hump markings,
parking space markings, and others, shall be white unless otherwise provided in this Manual.
Guidance:
2 Because of the low approach angle at which pavement markings are viewed, transverse lines should be proportioned
to provide visibility at least equal to that of longitudinal lines.
Section 3B.16 Stop and Yield Lines
Guidance:
1 Stop lines should be used to indicate the point behind which vehicles are required to stop in compliance with a
traffic control signal.
2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 39 of 91 December 2009
 Option:
2 Stop lines may be used to indicate the point behind which vehicles are required to stop in compliance with a STOP
(R1-1) sign, a Stop Here For Pedestrians (R1-5b or R1-5c) sign, or some other traffic control device that requires
vehicles to stop, except YIELD signs that are not associated with passive grade crossings.
3 Yield lines may be used to indicate the point behind which vehicles are required to yield in compliance with a
YIELD (R1-2) sign or a Yield Here To Pedestrians (R1-5 or R1-5a) sign.
Standard:
4 Except as provided in Section 8B.28, stop lines shall not be used at locations where drivers are required to
yield in compliance with a YIELD (R1-2) sign or a Yield Here To Pedestrians (R1-5 or R1-5a) sign or at
locations on uncontrolled approaches where drivers are required by State law to yield to pedestrians.
5 Yield lines shall not be used at locations where drivers are required to stop in compliance with a STOP (R1-1)
sign, a Stop Here For Pedestrians (R1-5b or R1-5c) sign, a traffic control signal, or some other traffic control
device.
6 Stop lines shall consist of solid white lines extending across approach lanes to indicate the point at which the
stop is intended or required to be made.
7 Yield lines (see Figure 3B-16) shall consist of a row of solid white isosceles triangles pointing toward
approaching vehicles extending across approach lanes to indicate the point at which the yield is intended or
required to be made.

Guidance:
8 Stop lines should be 12 to 24 inches wide.
9 The individual triangles comprising the yield line should have a base of 12 to 24 inches wide and a height equal to
1.5 times the base. The space between the triangles should be 3 to 12 inches.
10 If used, stop and yield lines should be placed a minimum of 4 feet in advance of the nearest crosswalk line at
controlled intersections, except for yield lines at roundabouts as provided for in Section 3C.04 and at midblock
crosswalks. In the absence of a marked crosswalk, the stop line or yield line should be placed at the desired
stopping or yielding point, but should not be placed more than 30 feet or less than 4 feet from the nearest edge of the
intersecting traveled way.
11 Stop lines at midblock signalized locations should be placed at least 40 feet in advance of the nearest signal
indication (see Section 4D.14).

2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 40 of 91 December 2009

12 If yield or stop lines are used at a crosswalk that crosses an uncontrolled multi-lane approach, the yield lines or stop
lines should be placed 20 to 50 feet in advance of the nearest crosswalk line, and parking should be prohibited in the
area between the yield or stop line and the crosswalk (see Figure 3B-17).

Standard:
13 If yield (stop) lines are used at a crosswalk that crosses an uncontrolled multi-lane approach, Yield Here To
(Stop Here For) Pedestrians (R1-5 series) signs (see Section 2B.11) shall be used.
Guidance:
14 Yield (stop) lines and Yield Here To (Stop Here For) Pedestrians signs should not be used in advance of crosswalks
that cross an approach to or departure from a roundabout.
Support:
15 When drivers yield or stop too close to crosswalks that cross uncontrolled multi-lane approaches, they place
pedestrians at risk by blocking other drivers’ views of pedestrians and by blocking pedestrians’ views of vehicles
approaching in the other lanes.
Option:
16 Stop and yield lines may be staggered longitudinally on a lane-by-lane basis (see Drawing D of Figure 3B-13).
Support:
17 Staggered stop lines and staggered yield lines can improve the driver’s view of pedestrians, provide better sight
distance for turning vehicles, and increase the turning radius for left-turning vehicles.
18 Section 8B.28 contains information regarding the use of stop lines and yield lines at grade crossings.
Section 3B.17 Do Not Block Intersection Markings
Option:
1 Do Not Block Intersection markings may be used to mark the edges of an intersection area that is in close proximity
to a signalized intersection, railroad crossing, or other nearby traffic control that might cause vehicles to stop within
the intersection and impede other traffic entering the intersection. If authorized by law, Do Not Block Intersection
markings with appropriate signs may also be used at other locations.
2 Standard:

2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 41 of 91 December 2009

3 If used, Do Not Block Intersection markings (see Figure 3B-18) shall consist of one of the following
alternatives:
A. Wide solid white lines that outline the intersection area that vehicles must not block;
B. Wide solid white lines that outline the intersection area that vehicles must not block and a white word
message such as DO NOT BLOCK or KEEP CLEAR;
C. Wide solid white lines that outline the intersection area that vehicles must not block and white cross-
hatching within the intersection area; or
D. A white word message, such as DO NOT BLOCK or KEEP CLEAR, within the intersection area that
vehicles must not block.
4 Do Not Block Intersection markings shall be accompanied by one or more DO NOT BLOCK
INTERSECTION (DRIVEWAY) (CROSSING) (R10-7) signs (see Section 2B.53), one or more DO NOT
STOP ON TRACKS (R8-8) signs (see Section 8B.09), or one or more similar signs.

Section 3B.18 Crosswalk Markings

Support:
1 Crosswalk markings provide guidance for pedestrians who are crossing roadways by defining and delineating paths
on approaches to and within signalized intersections, and on approaches to other intersections where traffic stops.
2 In conjunction with signs and other measures, crosswalk markings help to alert road users of a designated pedestrian
crossing point across roadways at locations that are not controlled by traffic control signals or STOP or YIELD
signs.
3 At non-intersection locations, crosswalk markings legally establish the crosswalk.
Standard:
4 When crosswalk lines are used, they shall consist of solid white lines that mark the crosswalk. They shall not
be less than 6 inches or greater than 24 inches in width.
Crosswalk areas, which differ in material or color from the adjoining pavement, shall be outlined with white
crosswalk lines.

2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 42 of 91 December 2009

 Retroreflective colored pavements shall not be used.
Guidance:
5 If transverse lines are used to mark a crosswalk, the gap
between the lines should not be less than 6 feet. If diagonal
or longitudinal lines are used without transverse lines to
mark a crosswalk, the crosswalk should be not less than 6
feet wide.
6 Crosswalk lines, if used on both sides of the crosswalk,
should extend across the full width of pavement or to the
edge of the intersecting crosswalk to discourage diagonal
walking between crosswalks (see Figures 3B-17 and 3B-
19).
7 At locations controlled by traffic control signals or on
approaches controlled by STOP or YIELD signs, crosswalk
lines should be installed where engineering judgment
indicates they are needed to direct pedestrians to the proper
crossing path(s).
8 Crosswalk lines should not be used indiscriminately. An
engineering study should be performed before a marked
crosswalk is installed at a location away from a traffic control signal or an approach controlled by a STOP or
YIELD sign. The engineering study should consider the number of lanes, the presence of a median, the distance
from adjacent signalized intersections, the pedestrian volumes and delays, the average daily traffic (ADT), the
posted or statutory speed limit or 85th-percentile speed, the geometry of the location, the possible consolidation of
multiple crossing points, the availability of street lighting, and other appropriate factors.
9 New marked crosswalks alone, without other measures designed to reduce traffic speeds, shorten crossing distances,
enhance driver awareness of the crossing, and/or provide active warning of pedestrian presence, should not be
installed across uncontrolled roadways where the speed limit exceeds 40 mph and either:
A. The roadway has four or more lanes of travel without a raised median or pedestrian refuge island and an
ADT of 12,000 vehicles per day or greater; or
B. The roadway has four or more lanes of travel with a raised median or pedestrian refuge island and an ADT
of 15,000 vehicles per day or greater.
Support:
10 Chapter 4F contains information on Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons. Section 4L.03 contains information regarding
Warning Beacons to provide active warning of a pedestrian’s presence. Section 4N.02 contains information
regarding In-Roadway Warning Lights at crosswalks. Chapter 7D contains information regarding school crossing
supervision.
Guidance:
11 Because non-intersection pedestrian crossings are generally unexpected by the road user, warning signs (see
Section 2C.50) should be installed for all marked crosswalks at non-intersection locations and adequate visibility
should be provided by parking prohibitions.
Support:
12 Section 3B.16 contains information regarding placement of stop line markings near crosswalk markings.
Option:
13 For added visibility, the area of the crosswalk may be marked with white diagonal lines at a 45-degree angle to the
line of the crosswalk or with white longitudinal lines parallel to traffic flow as shown in Figure 3B-19.
14 When diagonal or longitudinal lines are used to mark a crosswalk, the transverse crosswalk lines may be omitted.
This type of marking may be used at locations where substantial numbers of pedestrians cross without any other
traffic control device, at locations where physical conditions are such that added visibility of the crosswalk is
desired, or at places where a pedestrian crosswalk might not be expected.
Guidance:

2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 43 of 91 December 2009

15 If used, the diagonal or longitudinal lines should be 12 to 24 inches wide and separated by gaps of 12 to 60 inches.
The design of the lines and gaps should avoid the wheel paths if possible, and the gap between the lines should not
exceed 2.5 times the width of the diagonal or longitudinal lines.
Option:
16 When an exclusive pedestrian phase that permits diagonal
crossing of an intersection is provided at a traffic control
signal, a marking as shown in Figure 3B-20 may be used for
the crosswalk.
Guidance:
17 Crosswalk markings should be located so that the curb
ramps are within the extension of the crosswalk markings.
Support:
18 Detectable warning surfaces mark boundaries between
pedestrian and vehicular ways where there is no raised curb.
Detectable warning surfaces are required by 49 CFR, Part
37 and by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
where curb ramps are constructed at the junction of
sidewalks and the roadway, for marked and unmarked
crosswalks. Detectable warning surfaces contrast visually
with adjacent walking surfaces, either light-on-dark, or
dark-on-light. The “Americans with Disabilities Act
Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities
(ADAAG)” (see Section 1A.11) contains specifications for
design and placement of detectable warning surfaces.
Section 3B.19 Parking Space Markings
Support:
1 Marking of parking space boundaries encourages more orderly and efficient use of parking spaces where parking
turnover is substantial. Parking space markings tend to prevent encroachment into fire hydrant zones, bus stops,
loading zones, approaches to intersections, curb ramps, and clearance spaces for islands and other zones where
parking is restricted. Examples of parking space markings are shown in Figure 3B-21.
Wisconsin State Statutes 346.51 to 346.55 describe provisions for standing, stopping and parking. Figure 3B-21
shows parking prohibited for a distance of 20 to 30 feet from the near limits of a crosswalk. Wisconsin State Statute
346.53(5) restricts parking no closer than 15 feet to the near limits of any crosswalk. This limitation would apply on
the approach to a traffic signal as well, but in usual practice, prohibitions of up to 100 feet are common on the
approach to a signal where the approach is one lane plus parking or otherwise restricted such that provisions need to
be made to allow through traffic to bypass left turning traffic thereby increasing intersection efficiency.
Standard:
2 Parking space markings shall be white.
Option:
3 Blue lines may supplement white parking space markings of each parking space designated for use only by persons
with disabilities.
Support:
4 Additional parking space markings for the purpose of designating spaces for use only by persons with disabilities are
discussed in Section 3B.20 and illustrated in Figure 3B-22. The design and layout of accessible parking spaces for
persons with disabilities is provided in the “Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG)”
(see Section 1A.11).

2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 44 of 91 December 2009

2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 45 of 91 December 2009
 Section 3B.20 Pavement Word, Symbol, and Arrow
Markings
Support:
1 Word, symbol, and arrow markings on the pavement are
used for the purpose of guiding, warning, or regulating
traffic. These pavement markings can be helpful to road
users in some locations by supplementing signs and
providing additional emphasis for important regulatory,
warning, or guidance messages, because the markings do
not require diversion of the road user’s attention from the
roadway surface. Symbol messages are preferable to word
messages. Examples of standard word and arrow pavement
markings are shown in Figures 3B-23 and 3B-24.
Option:
2 Word, symbol, and arrow markings, including those
contained in the “Standard Highway Signs and Markings”
book (see Section 1A.11), may be used as determined by
engineering judgment to supplement signs and/or to provide
additional emphasis for regulatory, warning, or guidance
messages. Among the word, symbol, and arrow markings that may be used are the following:
A. Regulatory:
1. STOP
2. YIELD
3. RIGHT (LEFT) TURN ONLY
4. 25 MPH
5. Lane-use and wrong-way arrows
6. Diamond symbol for HOV lanes
7. Other preferential lane word markings
B. Warning:
1. STOP AHEAD
2. YIELD AHEAD
3. YIELD AHEAD triangle symbol
4. SCHOOL XING
5. SIGNAL AHEAD
6. PED XING
7. SCHOOL
8. R X R
9. BUMP
10. HUMP
11. Lane-reduction arrows
C. Guide:
1. Route numbers (route shield pavement marking symbols and/or words such as I-81, US 40, STATE 135,
or ROUTE 10)
2. Cardinal directions (NORTH, SOUTH, EAST, or WEST)
3. TO
4. Destination names or abbreviations thereof

2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 46 of 91 December 2009

2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 47 of 91 December 2009
 Standard:
3 Word, symbol, and arrow markings shall be white, except as otherwise provided in this Section.
4 Pavement marking letters, numerals, symbols, and arrows shall be installed in accordance with the design
details in the Pavement Markings chapter of the “Standard Highway Signs and Markings” book (see Section
1A.11).
Guidance:
5 Letters and numerals should be 6 feet or more in height.
6 Word and symbol markings should not exceed three lines of information.
7 If a pavement marking word message consists of more than one line of information, it should read in the direction of
travel. The first word of the message should be nearest to the road user.
8 Except for the two opposing arrows of a two-way left-turn lane marking (see Figure 3B-7), the longitudinal space
between word or symbol message markings, including arrow markings, should be at least four times the height of the
characters for low-speed roads, but not more than ten times the height of the characters under any conditions.
9 The number of different word and symbol markings used should be minimized to provide effective guidance and
avoid misunderstanding.
10 Except for the SCHOOL word marking (see Section 7C.03), pavement word, symbol, and arrow markings should be
no more than one lane in width.
11 Pavement word, symbol, and arrow markings should be proportionally scaled to fit within the width of the facility
upon which they are applied.
Option:
12 On narrow, low-speed shared-use paths, the pavement words, symbols, and arrows may be smaller than suggested,
but to the relative scale.
13 Pavement markings simulating Interstate, U.S., State, and other official highway route shield signs (see Figure 2D-3)
with appropriate route numbers, but elongated for proper proportioning when viewed as a marking, may be used to
guide road users to their destinations (see Figure 3B-25).

Standard:
14 Except at the ends of aisles in parking lots, the word STOP shall not be used on the pavement unless
accompanied by a stop line (see Section 3B.16) and STOP sign (see Section 2B.05). At the ends of aisles in
parking lots, the word STOP shall not be used on the pavement unless accompanied by a stop line.
15 The word STOP shall not be placed on the pavement in advance of a stop line, unless every vehicle is required
to stop at all times.
Option:
16 A yield-ahead triangle symbol (see Figure 3B-26) or YIELD AHEAD word pavement marking may be used on
approaches to intersections where the approaching traffic will encounter a YIELD sign at the intersection.

2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 48 of 91 December 2009

 Standard:
17 The yield-ahead triangle symbol or YIELD AHEAD word pavement marking shall not be used unless a
YIELD sign (see Section 2B.08) is in place at the intersection. The yield-ahead symbol marking shall be as
shown in Figure 3B-26.
Guidance:
18 The International Symbol of Accessibility parking space marking (see Figure 3B-22) should be placed in each
parking space designated for use by persons with disabilities.
Option:
19 A blue background with white border may supplement the wheelchair symbol as shown in Figure 3B-22.
Support:
20 Lane-use arrow markings (see Figure 3B-24) are used to indicate the mandatory or permissible movements in certain
lanes (see Figure 3B-27) and in two-way left-turn lanes (see Figure 3B-7).

2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 49 of 91 December 2009

 Guidance:
21 Lane-use arrow markings (see Figure 3B-24) should be used in lanes designated for the exclusive use of a turning
movement, including turn bays, except where engineering judgment determines that physical conditions or other
markings (such as a dotted extension of the lane line through the taper into the turn bay) clearly discourage
unintentional use of a turn bay by through vehicles. Lane-use arrow markings should also be used in lanes from
which movements are allowed that are contrary to the normal rules of the road (see Drawing B of Figure 3B-13).
When used in turn lanes, at least two arrows should be used, one at or near the upstream end of the full-width turn
lane and one an appropriate distance upstream from the stop line or intersection (see Drawing A of Figure 3B-11).
Option:
22 An additional arrow or arrows may be used in a turn lane. When arrows are used for a short turn lane, the second
(downstream) arrow may be omitted based on engineering judgment.
Guidance:
23 Where opposing offset channelized left-turn lanes exist, lane-use arrow markings should be placed near the
downstream terminus of the offset left-turn lanes to reduce wrong-way movements (see Figure 2B-17).
Support:
24 An arrow at the downstream end of a turn lane can help to prevent wrong way movements.
Standard:
25 Where through lanes approaching an intersection become mandatory turn lanes, lane-use arrow markings
(see Figure 3B-24) shall be used and shall be accompanied by standard signs.
Guidance:
2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 50 of 91 December 2009
26 Where through lanes approaching an intersection become mandatory turn lanes, ONLY word markings (see Figure
3B-23) should be used in addition to the required lane-use arrow markings and signs (see Sections 2B.19 and
2B.20). These markings and signs should be placed well in advance of the turn and should be repeated as necessary
to prevent entrapment and to help the road user select the appropriate lane in advance of reaching a queue of
waiting vehicles (see Drawing A of Figure 3B-11).
Option:
27 On freeways or expressways where a through lane becomes a mandatory exit lane, lane-use arrow markings may be
used on the approach to the exit in the dropped lane and in an adjacent optional through-or-exit lane if one exists.
Guidance:
28 A two-way left-turn lane-use arrow pavement marking, with opposing arrows spaced as shown in Figure 3B-7,
should be used at or just downstream from the beginning of a two-way left-turn lane.
Option:
29 Additional two-way left-turn lane-use arrow markings may be used at other locations along a two-way left-turn lane
where engineering judgment determines that such additional markings are needed to emphasize the proper use of the
lane.
Standard:
30 A single-direction lane-use arrow shall not be used in a lane bordered on both sides by yellow two-way left-
turn lane longitudinal markings.
31 Lane-use, lane-reduction, and wrong-way arrow markings shall be designed as shown in Figure 3B-24 and in
the “Standard Highway Signs and Markings” book (see Section 1A.11).
Option:
32 The ONLY word marking (see Figure 3B-23) may be used to supplement the lane-use arrow markings in lanes that
are designated for the exclusive use of a single movement (see Figure 3B-27) or to supplement a preferential lane
word or symbol marking (see Section 3D.01).
Standard:
33 The ONLY word marking shall not be used in a lane that is shared by more than one movement.
Guidance:
34 Where a lane-reduction transition occurs on a roadway with a speed limit of 45 mph or more, the lane-reduction
arrow markings shown in Drawing F in Figure 3B-24 should be used (see Figure 3B-14). Except for acceleration
lanes, where a lane-reduction transition occurs on a roadway with a speed limit of less than 45 mph, the lane-
reduction arrow markings shown in Drawing F in Figure 3B-24 should be used if determined to be appropriate
based on engineering judgment.
Option:
35 Lane-reduction arrow markings may be used in long acceleration lanes based on engineering judgment.
Guidance:
36 Where crossroad channelization or ramp geometrics do not make wrong-way movements difficult, the appropriate
lane-use arrow should be placed in each lane of an exit ramp near the crossroad terminal where it will be clearly
visible to a potential wrong-way road user (see Figure 2B-18).
Option:
37 The wrong-way arrow markings shown in Drawing D in Figure 3B-24 may be placed near the downstream terminus
of a ramp as shown in Figures 2B-18 and 2B-19, or at other locations where lane-use arrows are not appropriate, to
indicate the correct direction of traffic flow and to discourage drivers from traveling in the wrong direction.
Section 3B.21 Speed Measurement Markings
Support:
1 A speed measurement marking is a transverse marking placed on the roadway to assist the enforcement of speed
regulations.
Standard:
2 Speed measurement markings, if used, shall be white, and shall not be greater than 24 inches in width.
Speed measurement markings, if used, shall be white, 24 inches in width and 6 feet in length centered over
both edge lines of a freeway.
2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 51 of 91 December 2009
 Option:
3 Speed measurement markings may extend 24 inches on either side of the center line or 24 inches on either side of
edge line markings at 1/4-mile intervals over a 1-mile length of roadway. When paved shoulders of sufficient width
are available, the speed measurement markings may be placed entirely on these shoulders (see Drawing A of Figure
3B-10). Advisory signs may be used in conjunction with these markings.
Section 3B.22 Speed Reduction Markings
Support:
1 Speed reduction markings (see Figure 3B-28) are transverse markings that are placed on the roadway within a lane
(along both edges of the lane) in a pattern of progressively reduced spacing to give drivers the impression that their
speed is increasing. These markings might be placed in advance of an unexpectedly severe horizontal or vertical
curve or other roadway feature where drivers need to decelerate prior to reaching the feature and where the desired
reduction in speeds has not been achieved by the installation of warning signs and/or other traffic control devices.

Guidance:
2 If used, speed reduction markings should be reserved for unexpected curves and should not be used on long tangent
sections of roadway or in areas frequented mainly by local or familiar drivers, (e.g., school zones). If used, speed
reduction markings should supplement the appropriate warning signs and other traffic control devices and should
not substitute for these devices.
Standard:
3 If used, speed reduction markings shall be a series of white transverse lines on both sides of the lane that are
perpendicular to the center line, edge line, or lane line. The longitudinal spacing between the markings shall
be progressively reduced from the upstream to the downstream end of the marked portion of the lane.
Guidance:
4 Speed reduction markings should not be greater than 12 inches in width, and should not extend more than 18 inches
into the lane.
Standard:
5 Speed reduction markings shall not be used in lanes that do not have a longitudinal line (center line, edge line,
or lane line) on both sides of the lane.
Section 3B.23 Curb Markings
Support:
1 Curb markings are most often used to indicate parking regulations or to delineate the curb.
Standard:

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2 Where curbs are marked to convey parking regulations in areas where curb markings are frequently
obscured by snow and ice accumulation, signs shall be used with the curb markings except as provided in
Paragraph 4.
Guidance:
3 Except as provided in Paragraph 4, when curb markings are used without signs to convey parking regulations, a
legible word marking regarding the regulation (such as “No Parking” or “No Standing”) should be placed on the
curb.
Option:
4 Curb markings without word markings or signs may be used to convey a general prohibition by statute of parking
within a specified distance of a STOP sign, YIELD sign, driveway, fire hydrant, or crosswalk.
5 Local highway agencies may prescribe special colors for curb markings to supplement standard signs for parking
regulation.
Support:
6 Since yellow and white curb markings are frequently used for curb delineation and visibility, it is advisable to
establish parking regulations through the installation of standard signs (see Sections 2B.46 through 2B.48).
Standard:
7 Where curbs are marked for delineation or visibility purposes, the colors shall comply with the general
principles of markings (see Section 3A.05).
Guidance:
8 Retroreflective solid yellow markings should be placed on the approach ends of raised medians and curbs of islands
that are located in the line of traffic flow where the curb serves to channel traffic to the right of the obstruction.
9 Retroreflective solid white markings should be used when traffic is permitted to pass on either side of the island.
Support:
10 Where the curbs of the islands become parallel to the direction of traffic flow, it is not necessary to mark the curbs
unless an engineering study indicates the need for this type of delineation.
11 Curbs at openings in a continuous median island need not be marked unless an engineering study indicates the need
for this type of marking.
Option:
12 Retroreflective or internally illuminated raised pavement markers of the appropriate color may be placed on the
pavement in front of the curb and/or on the top of curbed noses of raised medians and curbs of islands, as a
supplement to or substitute for retroreflective curb markings used for delineation.
Section 3B.24 Chevron and Diagonal Crosshatch Markings
Option:
1 Chevron and diagonal crosshatch markings may be used to discourage travel on certain paved areas, such as
shoulders, gore areas, flush median areas between solid double yellow center line markings or between white
channelizing lines approaching obstructions in the roadway (see Section 3B.10 and Figure 3B-15), between solid
double yellow center line markings forming flush medians or channelized travel paths at intersections (see Figures
3B-2 and 3B-5), buffer spaces between preferential lanes and general-purpose lanes (see Figures 3D-2 and 3D-4),
and at grade crossings (see Part 8).
Standard:
2 When crosshatch markings are used in paved areas that separate traffic flows in the same general direction,
they shall be white and they shall be shaped as chevron markings, with the point of each chevron facing
toward approaching traffic, as shown in Figure 3B-8, Drawing A of Figure 3B-9, Figure 3B-10, and Drawing
C of Figure 3B-15.
3 When crosshatch markings are used in paved areas that separate opposing directions of traffic, they shall be
yellow diagonal markings that slant away from traffic in the adjacent travel lanes, as shown in Figures 3B-2
and 3B-5 and Drawings A and B of Figure 3B-15.
4 When crosshatch markings are used on paved shoulders, they shall be diagonal markings that slant away
from traffic in the adjacent travel lane. The diagonal markings shall be yellow when used on the left-hand

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 shoulders of the roadways of divided highways and on the left-hand shoulders of one-way streets or ramps.
The diagonal markings shall be white when used on right-hand shoulders.
Guidance:
5 The chevrons and diagonal lines used for crosshatch markings should be at least 12 inches wide for roadways
having a posted or statutory speed limit of 45 mph or greater, and at least 8 inches wide for roadways having posted
or statutory speed limit of less than 45 mph. The longitudinal spacing of the chevrons or diagonal lines should be
determined by engineering judgment considering factors such as speeds and desired visual impacts. The chevrons
and diagonal lines should form an angle of approximately 30 to 45 degrees with the longitudinal lines that they
intersect.
Section 3B.25 Speed Hump Markings
Standard:
1 If speed hump markings are used, they shall be a series of white markings placed on a speed hump to identify
its location. If markings are used for a speed hump that does not also function as a crosswalk or speed table,
the markings shall comply with Option A, B, or C shown in Figure 3B-29. If markings are used for a speed
hump that also functions as a crosswalk or speed table, the markings shall comply with Option A or B shown
in Figure 3B-30.

2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 54 of 91 December 2009

 Section 3B.26 Advance Speed Hump Markings
Option:
1 Advance speed hump markings (see Figure 3B-31) may be used in advance of speed humps or other engineered
vertical roadway deflections such as dips where added visibility is desired or where such deflection is not expected.
2 Advance pavement wording such as BUMP or HUMP (see Section 3B.20) may be used on the approach to a speed
hump either alone or in conjunction with advance speed hump markings. Appropriate advance warning signs may
be used in compliance with Section 2C.29.
Standard:
3 If advance speed hump markings are used, they shall be a series of eight white 12-inch transverse lines that
become longer and are spaced closer together as the vehicle approaches the speed hump or other deflection.
If advance markings are used, they shall comply with the detailed design shown in Figure 3B-31.
Guidance:
4 If used, advance speed hump markings should be installed in each approach lane.

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2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 56 of 91 December 2009
 CHAPTER 3C. ROUNDABOUT MARKINGS
Section 3C.01 General
Support:
1 A roundabout (see definition in Section 1A.13) is a specific type of circular intersection designed to control speeds
and having specific traffic control features.
Guidance:
2 Pavement markings and signing for a roundabout should be integrally designed to correspond to the geometric
design and intended lane use of a roundabout.
3 Markings on the approaches to a roundabout and on the circulatory roadway should be compatible with each other
to provide a consistent message to road users and should facilitate movement through the roundabout such that
vehicles do not have to change lanes within the circulatory roadway in order to exit the roundabout in a given
direction.
Support:
4 Figure 3C-1 provides an example of the pavement markings for approach and circulatory roadways at a roundabout.
Figure 3C-2 shows the options that are available for lane-use pavement marking arrows on approaches to
roundabouts. Figures 3C-3 through 3C-14 illustrate examples of markings for roundabouts of various geometric and
lane-use configurations.
5 Traffic control signals or pedestrian hybrid beacons (see Part 4) are sometimes used at roundabouts to facilitate the
crossing of pedestrians or to meter traffic.
6 Section 8C.12 contains information about roundabouts that contain or are in close proximity to grade crossings.

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 Section 3C.02 White Lane Line Pavement Markings for Roundabouts
Standard:
1 Multi-lane approaches to roundabouts shall have lane lines.
2 A through lane on a roadway that becomes a dropped lane (mandatory turn lane) at a roundabout shall be
marked with a dotted white lane line in accordance with Section 3B.04.
Guidance:
3 Multi-lane roundabouts should have lane line markings within the circulatory roadway to channelize traffic to the
appropriate exit lane.

2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 70 of 91 December 2009

 Standard:
4 Continuous concentric lane lines shall not be used within the circulatory roadway of roundabouts.
Support:
5 Section 9C.04 contains information regarding bicycle lane markings at roundabouts.
Section 3C.03 Edge Line Pavement Markings for Roundabout Circulatory Roadways
Guidance:
1 A white edge line should be used on the outer (right-hand) side of the circulatory roadway.
2 Where a white edge line is used for the circulatory roadway, it should be as follows (see Figure 3C-1):
A. A solid line adjacent to the splitter island, and
B. A wide dotted line across the lane(s) entering the roundabout.
Standard:
3 Edge lines and edge line extensions shall not be placed across the exits from the circulatory roadway at
roundabouts.
Option:
4 A yellow edge line may be placed around the inner (left-hand) edge of the circulatory roadway (see Figure 3C-1) and
may be used to channelize traffic (see Drawing B of Figure 3C-4).
Section 3C.04 Yield Lines for Roundabouts
Option:
1 A yield line (see Section 3B.16) may be used to indicate the point behind which vehicles are required to yield at the
entrance to a roundabout (see Figure 3C-1).
Section 3C.05 Crosswalk Markings at Roundabouts
Standard:
1 Pedestrian crosswalks shall not be marked to or from the central island of roundabouts.
Guidance:
2 If pedestrian facilities are provided, crosswalks (see Section 3B.18) should be marked across roundabout entrances
and exits to indicate where pedestrians are intended to cross.
3 Crosswalks should be a minimum of 20 feet from the edge of the circulatory roadway.
Support:
4 Various arrangements of crosswalks at roundabouts are illustrated in the figures in this Chapter.
Section 3C.06 Word, Symbol, and Arrow Pavement Markings for Roundabouts
Option:
1 Lane-use arrows may be used on any approach to and within the circulatory roadway of any roundabout.
2 YIELD (word) and YIELD AHEAD (symbol or word) pavement markings (see Figure 3C-1) may be used on
approaches to roundabouts.
3 Word and/or route shield pavement markings may be used on an approach to or within the circulatory roadway of a
roundabout to provide route and/or destination guidance information to road users (see Figure 3C-14).
Guidance:
4 Within the circulatory roadway of multi-lane roundabouts, normal lane-use arrows (see Section 3B.20 and Figure
3B-24) should be used.
5 On multi-lane approaches with double left-turn and/or double right-turn lanes, lane-use arrows as shown in Figures
3C-7 and 3C-8 should be used.
Option:
6 If used on approaches to a roundabout, lane-use arrows may be either normal or fish-hook arrows, either with or
without an oval symbolizing the central island, as shown in Figure 3C-2.
Section 3C.07 Markings for Other Circular Intersections
Support:
1 Other circular intersections include, but are not limited to, rotaries, traffic circles, and residential traffic calming
designs.

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 Option:
2 The markings shown in this Chapter may be used at other circular intersections if engineering judgment indicates
that their presence will benefit drivers, pedestrians, or other road users.

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 CHAPTER 3D. MARKINGS FOR PREFERENTIAL LANES
Section 3D.01 Preferential Lane Word and Symbol Markings
Support:
1 Preferential lanes are established for one or more of a wide variety of special uses, including, but not limited to,
high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes, ETC lanes, high-occupancy toll (HOT) lanes, bicycle lanes, bus only lanes,
taxi only lanes, and light rail transit only lanes.
Standard:
2 When a lane is assigned full or part time to a particular class or classes of vehicles, the preferential lane word
and symbol markings described in this Section and the preferential lane longitudinal markings described in
Section 3D.02 shall be used.
3 All longitudinal pavement markings, as well as word and symbol pavement markings, associated with a
preferential lane shall end where the Preferential Lane Ends (R3-12a or R3-12c) sign (see Section 2G.07)
designating the downstream end of the preferential only lane restriction is installed.
4 Static or changeable message regulatory signs (see Sections 2G.03 to 2G.07) shall be used with preferential
lane word or symbol markings.
5 All preferential lane word and symbol markings shall be white and shall be positioned laterally in the center
of the preferential lane.
6 Where a preferential lane use exists contiguous to a general-purpose lane or is separated from a general-
purpose lane by a flush buffered space that can be traversed by motor vehicles, the preferential lane shall be
marked with one or more of the following symbol or word markings for the preferential lane use specified:
A. HOV lane—the preferential lane-use marking for high-occupancy vehicle lanes shall consist of white
lines formed in a diamond shape symbol or the word message HOV. The diamond shall be at least 2.5
feet wide and 12 feet in length. The lines shall be at least 6 inches in width.
B. HOT lane or ETC Account-Only lane—except as provided in Paragraph 8, the preferential lane-use
marking for a HOT lane or an ETC Account-Only lane shall consist of a word marking using the
name of the ETC payment system required for use of the lane, such as E-Z PASS ONLY.
C. Bicycle lane—the preferential lane-use marking for a bicycle lane shall consist of a bicycle symbol or
the word marking BIKE LANE (see Chapter 9C and Figures 9C-1 and 9C-3 through 9C-6).
D. Bus only lane—the preferential lane-use marking for a bus only lane shall consist of the word marking
BUS ONLY.
E. Taxi only lane—the preferential lane-use marking for a taxi only lane shall consist of the word
marking TAXI ONLY.
F. Light rail transit lane—the preferential lane-use marking for a light rail transit lane shall consist of
the word marking LRT ONLY.
G. Other type of preferential lane—the preferential lane-use markings shall consist of a word marking
appropriate to the restriction.
7 If two or more preferential lane uses are permitted in a single lane, the symbol or word marking for each
preferential lane use shall be installed.
Option:
8 Preferential lane-use symbol or word markings may be omitted at toll plazas where physical conditions preclude the
use of the markings (see Section 3E.01).
Guidance:
9 The spacing of the markings should be based on engineering judgment that considers the prevailing speed, block
lengths, distance from intersections, and other factors that affect clear communication to the road user.
Support:
10 Markings spaced as close as 80 feet apart might be appropriate on city streets, while markings spaced as far as 1,000
feet apart might be appropriate for freeways.
Guidance:
11 In addition to a regular spacing interval, the preferential lane marking should be placed at strategic locations such
as major decision points, direct exit ramp departures from the preferential lane, and along access openings to and
from adjacent general-purpose lanes. At decision points, the preferential lane marking should be placed on all

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 applicable lanes and should be visible to approaching traffic for all available departures. At direct exits from
preferential lanes where extra emphasis is needed, the use of word markings (such as “EXIT” or “EXIT ONLY”) in
the deceleration lane for the direct exit and/or on the direct exit ramp itself just beyond the exit gore should be
considered.
Option:
12 A numeral indicating the vehicle occupancy requirements established for a high-occupancy vehicle lane may be
included in sequence after the diamond symbol or HOV word message.
Guidance:
13 Engineering judgment should determine the need for supplemental devices such as tubular markers, traffic cones, or
other channelizing devices (see Chapter 3H).
Section 3D.02 Preferential Lane Longitudinal Markings for Motor Vehicles
Support:
1 Preferential lanes can take many forms depending on the level of usage and the design of the facility. They might be
barrier-separated or buffer-separated from the adjacent general-purpose lanes, or they might be contiguous with the
adjacent general-purpose lanes. Barrier-separated preferential lanes might be operated in a constant direction or be
operated as reversible lanes. Some reversible preferential lanes on a divided highway might be operated counter-
flow to the direction of traffic on the immediately adjacent general-purpose lanes. See Section 1A.13 for definitions
of terms.
2 Preferential lanes might be operated full-time (24 hours per day on all days), for extended periods of the day, part-
time (restricted usage during specific hours on specified days), or on a variable basis (such as a strategy for a
managed lane).
Table 3D-1. Standard Edge Line and Lane Line Markings for Preferential Lanes
Type of
Left-Hand Edge Line Right-Hand Edge Line
Preferential Lane
Barrier-Separated, A normal solid single white line
A normal solid single yellow line
Non-Reversible (see Drawing A of Figure 3D-1)
Barrier-Separated, A normal solid single white line
A normal solid single white line
Reversible (see Drawing B of Figure 3D-1)
A wide solid double white line along both
edges of the buffer space where crossing is
prohibited (see Drawing A of Figure 3D-2)

A wide solid single white line along both

edges of the buffer space where crossing is
Buffer-Separated,
A normal solid single yellow line discouraged (see Drawing B of Figure 3D-2)
Left-Hand Side
A wide broken single white line along both
edges of the buffer space, or a wide broken
single white line within the buffer space
(resulting in wider lanes), where crossing is
permitted (see Drawing C of Figure 3D-2)
A wide solid double white line along both
edges of the buffer space where crossing is
prohibited (see Drawing D of Figure 3D-2)

A wide solid single white line along both

edges of the buffer space where crossing is
discouraged (see Drawing D of Figure 3D-2)

A wide broken single white line along both

Buffer-Separated, A normal solid single white line
edges of the buffer space, or a wide broken
Right-Hand Side (if warranted)
single white line within the buffer space
(resulting in wider lanes), where crossing is
permitted (see Drawing D of Figure 3D-2)

A wide dotted single white line within the

buffer space (resulting in wider lanes) where
crossing is permitted for any vehicle to
perform a right-turn maneuver
(see Drawing D of Figure 3D-2)

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 A wide solid double white line where crossing
is prohibited (see Drawing A of Figure 3D-3)

A wide solid single white line where crossing is

Contiguous,
A normal solid single yellow line discouraged (see Drawing B of Figure 3D-3)
Left-Hand Side
A wide broken single white line where
crossing is permitted
(see Drawing C of Figure 3D-3)
A wide solid double white line where crossing
is prohibited (see Drawing D of Figure 3D-3)

A wide solid single white line where

crossing is discouraged
(see Drawing D of Figure 3D-3)
Contiguous,
A wide broken single white line where A normal solid single white line
Right-Hand Side
crossing is permitted
(see Drawing D of Figure 3D-3)

A wide dotted single white line where

crossing is permitted for any vehicle to
perform a right-turn maneuver
(see Drawing D of Figure 3D-3)
Notes: 1. If there are two or more preferential lanes, the lane lines between the preferential lanes shall be normal
broken white lines.
2. The standard lane markings listed in this table are provided in a tabular format for reference.
3. This information is also described in Paragraph 3 of Section 3D.02.

Standard:
3 Longitudinal pavement markings for preferential lanes shall be as follows (these same requirements are
presented in tabular form in Table 3D-1):
A. Barrier-separated, non-reversible preferential lane—the longitudinal pavement markings for
preferential lanes that are physically separated from the other travel lanes by a barrier or median
shall consist of a normal solid single yellow line at the left-hand edge of the travel lane(s), and a
normal solid single white line at the right-hand edge of the travel lane(s) (see Drawing A in Figure 3D-
1).

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2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 76 of 91 December 2009
 B. Barrier-separated, reversible preferential lane—the longitudinal pavement markings for reversible
preferential lanes that are physically separated from the other travel lanes by a barrier or median
shall consist of a normal solid single white line at both edges of the travel lane(s) (see Drawing B in
Figure 3D-1).
C. Buffer-separated (left-hand side) preferential lane—the longitudinal pavement markings for a full-
time or part-time preferential lane on the left-hand side of and separated from the other travel lanes
by a neutral buffer space shall consist of a normal solid single yellow line at the left-hand edge of the
preferential travel lane(s) and one of the following at the right-hand edge of the preferential travel
lane(s):
1. A wide solid double white line along both edges of the buffer space where crossing the buffer space
is prohibited (see Drawing A in Figure 3D-2).
2. A wide solid single white line along both edges of the buffer space where crossing the buffer space
is discouraged (see Drawing B in Figure 3D-2).
3. A wide broken single white line along both edges of the buffer space, or a wide broken single white
lane line within the allocated buffer space (resulting in wider lanes), where crossing the buffer
space is permitted (see Drawing C in Figure 3D-2).
D. Buffer-separated (right-hand side) preferential lane—the longitudinal pavement markings for a full-
time or part-time preferential lane on the right-hand side of and separated from the other travel lanes
by a neutral buffer space shall consist of a normal solid single white line at the right-hand edge of the

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 preferential travel lane(s) if warranted (see Section 3B.07) and one of the following at the left-hand
edge of the preferential travel lane(s) (see Drawing D in Figure 3D-2):
1. A wide solid double white line along both edges of the buffer space where crossing the buffer space
is prohibited.
2. A wide solid single white line along both edges of the buffer space where crossing of the buffer
space is discouraged.
3. A wide broken single white line along both edges of the buffer space, or a wide broken single white
line within the allocated buffer space (resulting in wider lanes), where crossing the buffer space is
permitted.
4. A wide dotted single white lane line within the allocated buffer space (resulting in wider lanes)
where crossing the buffer space is permitted for any vehicle to perform a right-turn maneuver.
E. Contiguous (left-hand side) preferential lane—the longitudinal pavement markings for a full-time or
part-time preferential lane on the left-hand side of and contiguous to the other travel lanes shall
consist of a normal solid single yellow line at the left-hand edge of the preferential travel lane(s) and
one of the following at the right-hand edge of the preferential travel lane(s):
1. A wide solid double white lane line where crossing is prohibited (see Drawing A in Figure 3D-3).
2. A wide solid single white lane line where crossing is discouraged (see Drawing B in Figure 3D-3).
3. A wide broken single white lane line where crossing is permitted (see Drawing C in Figure 3D-3).

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 F. Contiguous (right-hand side) preferential lane—the longitudinal pavement markings for a full-time or
part-time preferential lane on the right-hand side of and contiguous to the other travel lanes shall
consist of a normal solid single white line at the right-hand edge of the preferential travel lane(s) if
warranted (see Section 3B.07) and one of the following at the left-hand edge of the preferential travel
lane(s) (see Drawing D in Figure 3D-3):
1. A wide solid double white lane line where crossing is prohibited.
2. A wide solid single white lane line where crossing is discouraged.
3. A wide broken single white lane line where crossing is permitted.
4. A wide dotted single white lane line where crossing is permitted for any vehicle to perform a right-
turn maneuver.
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 Guidance:
4 Where preferential lanes and other travel lanes are separated by a buffer space wider than 4 feet and crossing the
buffer space is prohibited, chevron markings (see Section 3B.24) should be placed in the buffer area (see Drawing A
in Figure 3D-2). The chevron spacing should be 100 feet or greater.
Option:
5 If a full-time or part-time contiguous preferential lane is separated from the other travel lanes by a wide broken
single white line (see Drawing C in Figure 3D-3), the spacing or skip pattern of the line may be reduced and the
width of the line may be increased.
Standard:
6 If there are two or more preferential lanes for traffic moving in the same direction, the lane lines between the
preferential lanes shall be normal broken white lines.
7 Preferential lanes for motor vehicles shall also be marked with the appropriate word or symbol pavement
markings in accordance with Section 3D.01 and shall have appropriate regulatory signs in accordance with
Sections 2G.03 through 2G.07.
Guidance:
8 At direct exits from a preferential lane, dotted white line markings should be used to separate the tapered or parallel
deceleration lane for the direct exit (including the taper) from the adjacent continuing preferential through lane, to
reduce the chance of unintended exit maneuvers.
Standard:
9 On a divided highway, a part-time counter-flow preferential lane that is contiguous to the travel lanes in the
opposing direction shall be separated from the opposing direction lanes by the standard reversible lane
longitudinal marking, a normal width broken double yellow line (see Section 3B.03 and Drawing A of Figure
3D-4). If a buffer space is provided between the part-time counter-flow preferential lane and the opposing
direction lanes, a normal width broken double yellow line shall be placed along both edges of the buffer space
(see Drawing B of Figure 3D-4). Signs (see Section 2B.26), lane-use control signals (see Chapter 4M), or both
shall be used to supplement the reversible lane markings.
10 On a divided highway, a full-time counter-flow preferential lane that is contiguous to the travel lanes in the
opposing direction shall be separated from the opposing direction lanes by a solid double yellow center line
marking (see Drawing C of Figure 3D-4). If a buffer space is provided between the full-time counter-flow
preferential lane and the opposing direction lanes, a normal width solid double yellow line shall be placed
along both edges of the buffer space (see Drawing D of Figure 3D-4).
Option:
11 Cones, tubular markers, or other channelizing devices (see Chapter 3H) may also be used to separate the opposing
lanes when a counter-flow preferential lane operation is in effect.

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2009 MUTCD Text Part 3 - Page 81 of 91 December 2009
 CHAPTER 3E. MARKINGS FOR TOLL PLAZAS
Section 3E.01 Markings for Toll Plazas
Support:
1 At toll plazas, pavement markings help road users identify the proper lane(s) to use for the type of toll payment they
plan to use, to channelize movements into the various lanes, and to delineate obstructions in the roadway.
Standard:
2 When a lane on the approach to a toll plaza is restricted to use only by vehicles with registered ETC accounts,
the ETC Account-Only lane word markings described in Section 3D.01 and the preferential lane longitudinal
markings described in Section 3D.02 shall be used. When one or more ORT lanes that are restricted to use
only by vehicles with registered ETC accounts bypass a mainline toll plaza on a separate alignment, these
word markings and longitudinal markings shall be used on the approach to the point where the ORT lanes
diverge from the lanes destined for the mainline toll plaza.
Option:
3 Preferential lane-use symbol or word markings may be omitted at toll plazas where physical conditions preclude the
use of the markings.
Guidance:
4 If an ORT lane that is immediately adjacent to a mainline toll plaza is not separated from adjacent cash payment toll
plaza lanes by a curb or barrier, then channelizing devices (see Section 3H.01), and/or longitudinal pavement
markings that discourage or prohibit lane changing should be used to separate the ORT lane from the adjacent cash
payment lane. This separation should begin on the approach to the mainline toll plaza at approximately the point
where the vehicle speeds in the adjacent cash lanes drop below 30 mph during off-peak periods and should extend
downstream beyond the toll plaza approximately to the point where the vehicles departing the toll plaza in the
adjacent cash lanes have accelerated to 30 mph.
Option:
5 For a toll plaza approach lane that is restricted to use only by vehicles with registered ETC accounts, the solid white
lane line or edge line on the right-hand side of the ETC Account-Only lane and the solid white lane line or solid
yellow edge line on the left-hand side of the ETC Account-Only lane may be supplemented with purple solid
longitudinal markings placed contiguous to the inside edges of the lines defining the lane.
Standard:
6 If used, the purple solid longitudinal marking described in the previous paragraph shall be a minimum of 3
inches in width and a maximum width equal to the width of the line it supplements, and ETC Account-Only
preferential lane word markings (see Section 3D.01) shall be installed within the lane.
7 Toll booths and the islands on which they are located are considered to be obstructions in the roadway and
they shall be provided with markings that comply with the provisions of Section 3B.10 and Chapter 3G.
Option:
8 Longitudinal pavement markings may be omitted alongside toll booth islands between the approach markings and
any departure markings.

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 CHAPTER 3F. DELINEATORS
Section 3F.01 Delineators
Support:
1 Delineators are particularly beneficial at locations where the alignment might be confusing or unexpected, such as at
lane-reduction transitions and curves. Delineators are effective guidance devices at night and during adverse
weather. An important advantage of delineators in certain locations is that they remain visible when the roadway is
wet or snow covered.
2 Delineators are considered guidance devices rather than warning devices.
Option:
3 Delineators may be used on long continuous sections of highway or through short stretches where there are changes
in horizontal alignment.
Section 3F.02 Delineator Design
Standard:
1 Delineators shall consist of retroreflective devices that are capable of clearly retroreflecting light under
normal atmospheric conditions from a distance of 1,000 feet when illuminated by the high beams of standard
automobile lights.
2 Retroreflective elements for delineators shall have a minimum dimension of 3 inches.
Support:
3 Within a series of delineators along a roadway, delineators for a given direction of travel at a specific location are
referred to as single delineators if they have one retroreflective element for that direction, double delineators if they
have two identical retroreflective elements for that direction mounted together, or vertically elongated delineators if
they have a single retroreflective element with an elongated vertical dimension to approximate the vertical
dimension of two separate single delineators.
Option:
4 A vertically elongated delineator of appropriate size may be used in place of a double delineator.
Section 3F.03 Delineator Application
Standard:
1 The color of delineators shall comply with the color of edge lines stipulated in Section 3B.06.
2 A series of single delineators shall be provided on the right-hand side of freeways and expressways and on at
least one side of interchange ramps, except when either Condition A or Condition B is met, as follows:
A. On tangent sections of freeways and expressways when both of the following conditions are met:
1. Raised pavement markers are used continuously on lane lines throughout all curves and on all
tangents to supplement pavement markings, and
2. Roadside delineators are used to lead into all curves.
B. On sections of roadways where continuous lighting is in operation between interchanges.
Option:
3 Delineators may be provided on other classes of roads. A series of single delineators may be provided on the left-
hand side of roadways.
Standard:
4 Delineators on the left-hand side of a two-way roadway shall be white (see Figure 3F-1).

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 Guidance:
5 A series of single delineators should be provided on the outside of curves on interchange ramps.
6 Where median crossovers are provided for official or emergency use on divided highways and where these
crossovers are to be marked, a double yellow delineator should be placed on the left-hand side of the through
roadway on the far side of the crossover for each roadway.
7 Double or vertically elongated delineators should be installed at 100-foot intervals along acceleration and
deceleration lanes.
8 A series of delineators should be used wherever guardrail or other longitudinal barriers are present along a
roadway or ramp.
Option:

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9 Red delineators may be used on the reverse side of any delineator where it would be viewed by a road user traveling
in the wrong direction on that particular ramp or roadway.
10 Delineators of the appropriate color may be used to indicate a lane-reduction transition where either an outside or
inside lane merges into an adjacent lane.
Guidance:
11 When used for lane-reduction transitions, the delineators should be installed adjacent to the lane or lanes reduced
for the full length of the transition and should be so placed and spaced to show the reduction (see Figure 3B-14).
Support:
12 Delineators are not necessary for traffic moving in the direction of a wider pavement or on the side of the roadway
where the alignment is not affected by the lane-reduction transition.
Guidance:
13 On a highway with continuous delineation on either or both sides, delineators should be carried through transitions.
Option:
14 On a highway with continuous delineation on either or both sides, the spacing between a series of delineators may be
closer.
Standard:
15 When used on a truck escape ramp, delineators shall be red.
Guidance:
16 Red delineators should be placed on both sides of truck escape ramps. The delineators should be spaced
at 50-foot intervals for a distance sufficient to identify the ramp entrance. Delineator spacing beyond the
ramp entrance should be adequate for guidance according to the length and design of the escape ramp.
As described in the Wisconsin State Statute 346.41(3), the appropriate color for delineators denoting driveways
should be blue.
Section 3F.04 Delineator Placement and Spacing
Guidance:
1 Delineators should be mounted on suitable supports at a mounting height, measured vertically from the bottom of
the lowest retroreflective device to the elevation of the near edge of the roadway, of approximately 4 feet.
Option:
2 When mounted on the face of or on top of guardrails or other longitudinal barriers, delineators may be mounted at a
lower elevation than the normal delineator height recommended in Paragraph 1.
Guidance:
3 Delineators should be placed 2 to 8 feet outside the outer edge of the shoulder, or if appropriate, in line with the
roadside barrier that is 8 feet or less outside the outer edge of the shoulder.
4 Delineators should be placed at a constant distance from the edge of the roadway, except that where an obstruction
intrudes into the space between the pavement edge and the extension of the line of the delineators, the delineators
should be transitioned to be in line with or inside the innermost edge of the obstruction. If the obstruction is a
guardrail or other longitudinal barrier, the delineators should be transitioned to be just behind, directly above (in
line with), or on the innermost edge of the guardrail or longitudinal barrier.
5 Delineators should be spaced 200 to 530 feet apart on mainline tangent sections. Delineators should be spaced 100
feet apart on ramp tangent sections.
Support:
6 Examples of delineator installations are shown in Figure 3F-1.
Option:
7 When uniform spacing is interrupted by such features as driveways and intersections, delineators which would
ordinarily be located within the features may be relocated in either direction for a distance not exceeding one quarter
of the uniform spacing. Delineators still falling within such features may be eliminated.
8 Delineators may be transitioned in advance of a lane transition or obstruction as a guide for oncoming traffic.
Guidance:

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9 The spacing of delineators should be adjusted on approaches to and throughout horizontal curves so that several
delineators are always simultaneously visible to the road user. The approximate spacing shown in Table 3F-1
should be used.
Option:
10 When needed for special conditions, delineators of the appropriate color may be mounted in a closely-spaced manner
on the face of or on top of guardrails or other longitudinal barriers to form a continuous or nearly continuous
“ribbon” of delineation.
Table 3F-1. Approximate Spacing for Delineators on
Horizontal Curves
Radius (R) of Curve Approximate Spacing (S) on Curve
50 feet 20 feet
115 feet 25 feet
180 feet 35 feet
250 feet 40 feet
300 feet 50 feet
400 feet 55 feet
500 feet 65 feet
600 feet 70 feet
700 feet 75 feet
800 feet 80 feet
900 feet 85 feet
1,000 feet 90 feet
NOTES:
1. Spacing for specific radii may be interpolated from table.
2. The minimum spacing should be 20 feet.
3. The spacing on curves should not exceed 300 feet.
4. In advance of or beyond a curve, and proceeding away from the end of
the curve, the spacing of the first delineator is 2S, the second 3S, and
the third 6S, but not to exceed 300 feet.
5. S refers to the delineator spacing for specific radii computed from
the formula S=3√R-50.
6. The distances for S shown in the table above were rounded to
the nearest 5 feet.

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 CHAPTER 3G. COLORED PAVEMENTS
Section 3G.01 General
Support:
1 Colored pavements consist of differently colored road paving materials, such as colored asphalt or concrete, or paint
or other marking materials applied to the surface of a road or island to simulate a colored pavement.
Standard:
Retroreflective colored pavements shall not be used.
2 If non-retroreflective colored pavement, including bricks and other types of patterned surfaces, is used as a purely
aesthetic treatment and is not intended to communicate a regulatory, warning, or guidance message to road users, the
colored pavement is not considered to be a traffic control device, even if it is located between the lines of a
crosswalk.
Standard:
3 If colored pavement is used within the traveled way, on flush or raised islands, or on shoulders to regulate,
warn, or guide traffic or if retroreflective colored pavement is used, the colored pavement is considered to be
a traffic control device and shall be limited to the following colors and applications:
A. Yellow pavement color shall be used only for flush or raised median islands separating traffic flows in
opposite directions or for left-hand shoulders of roadways of divided highways or one-way streets or
ramps.
B. White pavement color shall be used for flush or raised channelizing islands where traffic passes on
both sides in the same general direction or for right-hand shoulders.
4 Colored pavements shall not be used as a traffic control device, unless the device is applicable at all times.
Guidance:
5 Colored pavements used as traffic control devices should be used only where they contrast significantly with
adjoining paved areas.
Standard:
Crosswalk areas, which differ in material or color from the adjoining pavement, shall be outlined with white
crosswalk lines.
6 Colored pavement located between crosswalk lines should not use colors or patterns that degrade the contrast of
white crosswalk lines, or that might be mistaken by road users as a traffic control application.

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 CHAPTER 3H. CHANNELIZING DEVICES USED FOR EMPHASIS OF PAVEMENT
MARKING PATTERNS
Section 3H.01 Channelizing Devices
Option:
1 Channelizing devices, as described in Sections 6F.63 through 6F.73, and 6F.75, and as shown in Figure 6F-7, such
as cones, tubular markers, vertical panels, drums, lane separators, and raised islands, may be used for general traffic
control purposes such as adding emphasis to reversible lane delineation, channelizing lines, or islands. Channelizing
devices may also be used along a center line to preclude turns or along lane lines to preclude lane changing, as
determined by engineering judgment.
Standard:
2 Except for color, the design of channelizing devices, including but not limited to retroreflectivity, minimum
dimensions, and mounting height, shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 6F.
3 The color of channelizing devices used outside of temporary traffic control zones shall be either orange or the
same color as the pavement marking that they supplement, or for which they are substituted.
4 For nighttime use, channelizing devices shall be retroreflective (as described in Part 6) or internally
illuminated. On channelizing devices used outside of temporary traffic control zones, retroreflective sheeting
or bands shall be white if the devices separate traffic flows in the same direction and shall be yellow if the
devices separate traffic flows in the opposite direction or are placed along the left-hand edge line of a one-way
roadway or ramp.
Guidance:
5 Channelizing devices should be kept clean and bright to maximize target value.

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 CHAPTER 3I. ISLANDS
Section 3I.01 General
Support:
1 This Chapter addresses the characteristics of islands (see definition in Section 1A.13) as traffic-control devices.
Criteria for the design of islands are set forth in “A Policy on Geometric Design of Highways and Streets” (see
Section 1A.11).
Option:
2 An island may be designated by curbs, pavement edges, pavement markings, channelizing devices, or other devices.
Section 3I.02 Approach-End Treatment
Guidance:
1 The ends of islands first approached by traffic should be preceded by diverging longitudinal pavement markings on
the roadway surface, to guide vehicles into desired paths of travel along the island edge.
Support:
2 The neutral area between approach-end markings that can be readily crossed even at considerable speed sometimes
contains slightly raised (usually less than 1 inch high) sections of coarse aggregate or other suitable materials to
create rumble sections that provide increased visibility of the marked areas and that produce an audible warning to
road users traveling across them. For additional discouragement to driving in the neutral area, bars or buttons
projecting 1 to 3 inches above the pavement surface are sometimes placed in the neutral area. These bars or buttons
are designed so that any wheel encroachment within the area will be obvious to the vehicle operator, but will result
in only minimal effects on control of the vehicle. Such bars or buttons are sometimes preceded by rumble sections
or their height is gradually increased as approached by traffic.
Guidance:
3 When raised bars or buttons are used in these neutral areas, they should be marked with white or yellow
retroreflective materials, as determined by the direction or directions of travel they separate.
Standard:
4 Channelizing devices, when used in advance of islands having raised curbs, shall not be placed in such a
manner as to constitute an unexpected obstacle.
Option:
5 Pavement markings may be used with raised bars to better designate the island area.
Section 3I.03 Island Marking Application
Standard:
1 Markings, as related to islands, shall consist only of pavement and curb markings, channelizing devices, and
delineators.
Option:
2 Pavement markings as described in Section 3B.10 for the approach to an obstruction may be omitted on the approach
to a particular island based on engineering judgment.
Section 3I.04 Island Marking Colors
Guidance:
1 Islands outlined by curbs or pavement markings should be marked with retroreflective white or yellow material as
determined by the direction or directions of travel they separate (see Section 3A.05).
2 The retroreflective area should be of sufficient length to denote the general alignment of the edge of the island along
which vehicles travel, including the approach end, when viewed from the approach to the island.
Option:
3 On long islands, curb retroreflection may be discontinued such that it does not extend for the entire length of the
curb, especially if the island is illuminated or marked with delineators or edge lines.
Section 3I.05 Island Delineation
Standard:

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1 Delineators installed on islands shall be the same colors as the related edge lines except that, when facing
wrong-way traffic, they shall be red (see Section 3F.03).
2 Each roadway through an intersection shall be considered separately in positioning delineators to assure
maximum effectiveness.
Option:
3 Retroreflective or internally illuminated raised pavement markers of the appropriate color may be placed on the
pavement in front of the curb and/or on the top of curbed approach ends of raised medians and curbs of islands, as a
supplement to or as a substitute for retroreflective curb markings.
Section 3I.06 Pedestrian Islands and Medians
Support:
1 Raised islands or medians of sufficient width that are placed in the center area of a street or highway can serve as a
place of refuge for pedestrians who are attempting to cross at a midblock or intersection location. Center islands or
medians allow pedestrians to find an adequate gap in one direction of traffic at a time, as the pedestrians are able to
stop, if necessary, in the center island or median area and wait for an adequate gap in the other direction of traffic
before crossing the second half of the street or highway. The minimum widths for accessible refuge islands and for
design and placement of detectable warning surfaces are provided in the “Americans with Disabilities Act
Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities (ADAAG)” (see Section 1A.11).

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 CHAPTER 3J. RUMBLE STRIP MARKINGS
Section 3J.01 Longitudinal Rumble Strip Markings
Support:
1 Longitudinal rumble strips consist of a series of rough-textured or slightly raised or depressed road surfaces intended
to alert inattentive drivers through vibration and sound that their vehicle has left the travel lane. Shoulder rumble
strips are typically installed along the shoulder near the travel lane. On divided highways, rumble strips are
sometimes installed on the median side (left-hand side) shoulder as well as on the outside (right-hand side) shoulder.
On two-way roadways, rumble strips are sometimes installed along the center line.
2 This Manual contains no provisions regarding the design and placement of longitudinal rumble strips. The
provisions in this Manual address the use of markings in combination with a longitudinal rumble strip.
Option:
3 An edge line or center line may be located over a longitudinal rumble strip to create a rumble stripe.
Standard:
4 The color of an edge line or center line associated with a longitudinal rumble stripe shall be in accordance
with Section 3A.05.
5 An edge line shall not be used in addition to a rumble stripe that is located along a shoulder.
Support:
6 Figure 3J-1 illustrates markings used with or near longitudinal rumble strips.

Section 3J.02 Transverse Rumble Strip Markings

Support:
1 Transverse rumble strips consist of intermittent narrow, transverse areas of rough-textured or slightly raised or
depressed road surface that extend across the travel lanes to alert drivers to unusual vehicular traffic conditions.
Through noise and vibration, they attract the attention of road users to features such as unexpected changes in
alignment and conditions requiring a reduction in speed or a stop.
2 This Manual contains no provisions regarding the design and placement of transverse rumble strips that approximate
the color of the pavement. The provisions in this Manual address the use of markings in combination with a
transverse rumble strip.
Standard:
3 Except as otherwise provided in Section 6F.87 for TTC zones, if the color of a transverse rumble strip used
within a travel lane is not the color of the pavement, the color of the transverse rumble strip shall be either
black or white.
Guidance:
4 White transverse rumble strips used in a travel lane should not be placed in locations where they could be confused
with other transverse markings such as stop lines or crosswalks.

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