R5-1a Wrong Way
Warns drivers that they are traveling against the permitted direction of traffic. The red WRONG WAY sign faces traffic entering or proceeding in the prohibited direction.
- Sign Name
- Wrong Way
- MUTCD Code
- R5-1a
- Sign Category
- Regulatory Signs
Specifications
- Shape
- Rectangle (Horizontal)
- Color / legend
- Red background, white legend
Sizes & Dimensions (inches)
These are dimensions shown on the linked layout. Select the required size using the applicable MUTCD and agency requirements; the smallest drawing size is not necessarily the permitted minimum.
- Layout 130" × 18"
- Layout 236" × 24"
- Layout 342" × 30"
Placement Context
- Where it sits
- At the point where the regulation applies, per CA MUTCD Part 2B.
- CA MUTCD reference
- CA MUTCD 2026 Chapter 2B — Regulatory Signs, Barricades, and Gates
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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. Reference editions: California MUTCD 2026 (effective January 18, 2026) and the Federal MUTCD 11th Edition with Revision 1.
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