The W6-4 Narrow Two-Way Traffic sign warns that the roadway ahead narrows to a two-way, two-lane operation with opposing traffic on the other side of the center line. The two opposing arrows indicate traffic moving in both directions past the sign. In temporary traffic control it is shown on an orange background, commonly where a lane closure or crossover sets up a narrow two-way section.
Approach to a narrow two-way, two-lane operation around a work area. 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 W6-4 Narrow Two-Way Traffic sign warns that the roadway ahead narrows to a two-way, two-lane operation with opposing traffic on the other side of the center line. The two opposing arrows indicate traffic moving in both directions past the sign. In temporary traffic control it is shown on an orange background, commonly where a lane closure or crossover sets up a narrow two-way section.
The W6-4 Narrow Two-Way Traffic sign warns that the roadway ahead narrows to a two-way, two-lane operation with opposing traffic on the other side of the center line. The two opposing arrows indicate traffic moving in both directions past the sign. In temporary traffic control it is shown on an orange background, commonly where a lane closure or crossover sets up a narrow two-way section. In the field, W6-4 Narrow Two-Way Traffic is typically positioned at the on the approach to a narrow section that carries two-way traffic (for example a two-lane, two-way operation set up around the work area). Common deployments include approach to a narrow two-way, two-lane operation around a work area; used where a lane closure or crossover creates a two-way section; 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.
Learn more about Narrow Two-Way Traffic sign requirementsW6-4 Narrow Two-Way Traffic is used in California per the CA MUTCD to warn drivers of a narrow two-way operation set up around a work area. 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 W6-4 Narrow Two-Way Traffic is the correct designation, size, and placement for the two-way section, and that drivers are warned in advance. 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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