KEEP RIGHT (HORIZONTAL ARROW) Sign Requirements
This guide summarizes the MUTCD requirements and practical application guidance for the R4-7a KEEP RIGHT (HORIZONTAL ARROW) sign. Use this resource to understand when it is required, how to place it correctly, and how to maintain clear visibility for safe operations.
When It Is Used
Mounted at the approach end of a median, island, or channelizing device
Where It Applies
At the approach end of a median, island, or obstruction that traffic must pass on the right.
Placement Basics
Mount at the standard height and setback for the roadway with clear sight lines.
Visibility / Reflectivity
High reflectivity and clear sight lines are essential day and night.
1. When a KEEP RIGHT (HORIZONTAL ARROW) Sign Is Used
The R4-7a Keep Right (Horizontal Arrow) sign requires drivers to pass to the right of a median, island, or obstruction. It uses a horizontal arrow pointing right and is the version placed where traffic keeps right on a level path around the obstruction.
- Mounted at the approach end of a median, island, or channelizing device
- Used where traffic must pass to the right of an obstruction on a level path
- Sized and placed per the CA MUTCD and the roadway type
2. How and Where It Applies
In the field, R4-7a Keep Right (Horizontal Arrow) is typically positioned at the at the approach end of a median, island, or obstruction that traffic must pass on the right. Common deployments include mounted at the approach end of a median, island, or channelizing device; used where traffic must pass to the right of an obstruction on a level path; sized and placed per the CA MUTCD and the roadway type. Always confirm its size, retroreflective sheeting, spacing, and placement against the CA MUTCD 2026 and the reviewing agency before finalizing the traffic control plan.
3. Placement and Application Notes
Position R4-7a at the approach end of a median, island, or obstruction that traffic must pass on the right.
- Place the sign where drivers have a clear, unobstructed view on approach.
- Mount at the standard height and setback from the edge of the traveled way.
- Do not mount with other signs on the same post unless space constraints require it.
4. Standard Sizes and Visibility Considerations
Typical minimum: 24" × 30"; 18" × 24" minimum on low-speed roadways.
- Choose size based on roadway speed, sight distance, and mounting location.
- Maintain high retroreflectivity for maximum night and adverse-weather visibility.
5. California Notes
R4-7a Keep Right (Horizontal Arrow) is used in California per the CA MUTCD at medians, islands, and obstructions in and around work zones. Confirm its size, retroreflective sheeting, placement, and spacing against the CA MUTCD 2026 and the reviewing agency before finalizing the traffic control plan.
Go to California Notes6. Common Field or Planning Mistakes
- Temporary regulatory control not warranted or conflicts with existing control.
- Reduced speed limit posted without proper speed-setting authorization.
- Wrong-way protection (DO NOT ENTER / WRONG WAY) missing at closed approaches.
- Sign size not appropriate for the facility.
Related Resources
View All R-Series Signs
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. Local jurisdictions may impose additional requirements, and final selection, placement, and dimensions may require engineering judgment or agency approval. Written against California MUTCD 2026 (effective January 18, 2026) and the Federal MUTCD 11th Edition. Official sources last verified June 2026.
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