This guide summarizes the MUTCD requirements and practical application guidance for the W1-6L ONE DIRECTION LARGE ARROW (LEFT) 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 on the outside of a sharp left change in horizontal alignment
On the outside of a sharp change in horizontal alignment, facing approaching traffic.
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 W1-6L One Direction Large Arrow (Left) sign is a horizontal warning sign with a single large arrow that directs traffic to turn or bear left at a sharp change in roadway alignment. It is mounted on the outside of the curve or turn, facing approaching drivers, so the arrow points in the direction the road goes.
The W1-6L One Direction Large Arrow (Left) sign is a horizontal warning sign with a single large arrow that directs traffic to turn or bear left at a sharp change in roadway alignment. It is mounted on the outside of the curve or turn, facing approaching drivers, so the arrow points in the direction the road goes. In the field, W1-6L One Direction Large Arrow (Left) is typically positioned at the on the outside of a sharp change in horizontal alignment, facing approaching traffic. Common deployments include mounted on the outside of a sharp left change in horizontal alignment; used to guide traffic around a curve, turn, or work-zone diversion to the left; 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.
On the outside of a sharp change in horizontal alignment, facing approaching traffic.
Typical minimum: 48" × 24" on conventional roads; 60" × 30" on expressways and freeways.
W1-6L One Direction Large Arrow (Left) is used in California per the CA MUTCD at sharp changes in alignment and around 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.
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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