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.
Mounted at the approach end of a median, island, or channelizing device
At the approach end of a median, island, or obstruction that traffic must pass on the right.
Mount at the standard height and setback for the roadway with clear sight lines.
High reflectivity and clear sight lines are essential day and night.
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.
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. 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.
At the approach end of a median, island, or obstruction that traffic must pass on the right.
Typical minimum: 24" × 30"; 18" × 24" minimum on low-speed roadways.
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 NotesEducational 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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