W9 Series — Lane Ends / Divided Highway Warning Signs
Warning Signs · CA MUTCD Part 6, Chapter 6F
The W9 Series includes warning signs for lane-ending and divided-highway transitions. W9-2 (LANE ENDS) is widely used in California work zones at the downstream end of a lane reduction taper to reinforce the merge for drivers who missed the upstream W20-5 series advance warning. It is also used at permanent lane drops. W9 signs complement the W4 and W20-5 series in lane-closure sequences.
California Field Use Notes
W9-2 is typically placed at the nose of a lane-closure taper in combination with channelizing devices. It serves as a last-chance notice for drivers who missed the advance LANE CLOSED AHEAD warning. Some agencies require it on all lane closures regardless of whether the W20-5 series is already posted.
Showing 3 of 3 signs
A word-message warning that a travel lane is ending ahead, telling drivers the number of through lanes will be reduced.
The W9-1 Right (Left) Lane Ends sign is a California MUTCD warning sign. It is shown here as an educational reference with the official FHWA Standard Highway Signs layout and California sizing guidance.
The W9-3 Interior Lane Shift Ahead sign is a California MUTCD warning sign. It is shown here as an educational reference with the official FHWA Standard Highway Signs layout and California sizing guidance.
Educational reference only. This is not an official Caltrans, FHWA, or local agency publication and is not legal or engineering advice. Always verify sign selection, size, placement, spacing, and application against the current CA MUTCD 2026, Caltrans sign specifications, Standard Plans, project documents, and the reviewing agency’s requirements.
Need W9 Series signs for a California project?
Public Ready can help you source, rent, or purchase W9 Series signs and integrate them into a compliant traffic control plan. For work zone compliance support, visit WorkZoneCompliance.com.