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W1-6R One Direction Large Arrow (Right) — official FHWA layout

ONE DIRECTION LARGE ARROW (RIGHT) Sign Requirements

This guide summarizes the MUTCD requirements and practical application guidance for the W1-6R ONE DIRECTION LARGE ARROW (RIGHT) 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 on the outside of a sharp right change in horizontal alignment

Where It Applies

On the outside of a sharp change in horizontal alignment, facing approaching traffic.

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 ONE DIRECTION LARGE ARROW (RIGHT) Sign Is Used

The W1-6R One Direction Large Arrow (Right) sign is a horizontal warning sign with a single large arrow that directs traffic to turn or bear right 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.

  • Mounted on the outside of a sharp right change in horizontal alignment
  • Used to guide traffic around a curve, turn, or work-zone diversion to the right
  • Sized and placed per the CA MUTCD and the roadway type

2. How and Where It Applies

In the field, W1-6R One Direction Large Arrow (Right) 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 right change in horizontal alignment; used to guide traffic around a curve, turn, or work-zone diversion to the right; 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 W1-6R on the outside of a sharp change in horizontal alignment, facing approaching traffic.

  • 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: 48" × 24" on conventional roads; 60" × 30" on expressways and freeways.

  • Choose size based on roadway speed, sight distance, and mounting location.
  • Maintain high retroreflectivity for maximum night and adverse-weather visibility.

5. California Notes

W1-6R One Direction Large Arrow (Right) 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 Notes

6. Common Field or Planning Mistakes

  • Sign not shown at the correct advance distance for the posted speed.
  • Advance warning sign missing or out of sequence on the TCP.
  • Wrong size specified for the roadway classification (conventional vs. expressway).
  • Sign sheeting / retroreflectivity class not noted on the plan.

Related Resources

View All W-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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