The W1-3L Reverse Turn (Left) sign warns of two turns in opposite directions that are separated by a short tangent, where the first turn is to the left. The angular symbol distinguishes a reverse turn from the smoother reverse curve (W1-4).
Placed ahead of a left-then-right reverse turn in the alignment. Confirm placement and supplemental plaques against the applicable CA MUTCD standard.
View this sign on the Federal MUTCD (FHWA)California-specific application notes and adoptions may differ. Review California requirements where applicable.
The W1-3L Reverse Turn (Left) sign warns of two turns in opposite directions that are separated by a short tangent, where the first turn is to the left. The angular symbol distinguishes a reverse turn from the smoother reverse curve (W1-4).
The W1-3L Reverse Turn (Left) sign warns of two turns in opposite directions that are separated by a short tangent, where the first turn is to the left. The angular symbol distinguishes a reverse turn from the smoother reverse curve (W1-4). In the field, W1-3L Reverse Turn (Left) is typically positioned at the in advance of the first turn of a reverse-turn (left-then-right) roadway alignment. Common deployments include placed ahead of a left-then-right reverse turn in the alignment; used on work-zone diversions and temporary lane shifts; sized and placed for the approach speed per the CA MUTCD. Always confirm its size, retroreflective sheeting, spacing, and placement against the CA MUTCD 2026 and the reviewing agency before finalizing the traffic control plan.
Learn more about Reverse Turn (Left) sign requirementsW1-3L Reverse Turn (Left) is used in California per the CA MUTCD ahead of a reverse-turn alignment beginning with a left turn, including work-zone diversions. Confirm its size, retroreflective sheeting, placement, and spacing against the CA MUTCD 2026 and the reviewing agency before finalizing the traffic control plan.
In Los Angeles, this sign must conform to CA MUTCD 2026. Work in City of LA right-of-way is reviewed by StreetsLA and the Bureau of Engineering (BOE); state highways in LA County are permitted and reviewed by Caltrans District 7; county roads are permitted by LA County DPW. Sizes, retroreflectivity, and placement must meet CA MUTCD minimums — local agencies may require larger signs based on roadway class, speed, pedestrian volume, and proximity to schools or transit.
Confirm W1-3L Reverse Turn (Left) matches the field alignment (first turn left) and advance placement for the posted speed. Public Ready can review sign selection against the TCP and agency requirements.
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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