This guide summarizes the MUTCD requirements and practical application guidance for the W9-2 LANE ENDS MERGE LEFT (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.
Lane reductions ahead of a closure
Advance warning area, ahead of the work.
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 word-message warning LANE ENDS MERGE LEFT (RIGHT), telling drivers that a through lane is ending and they must merge in the indicated direction. The plain “Lane Ends” symbol sign is a separate designation (W4-2). This sign is discontinued in the MUTCD 11th Edition; the face shown is the official FHWA Standard Highway Signs 2004 Edition depiction (W9-2L).
The word-message warning LANE ENDS MERGE LEFT (RIGHT), telling drivers that a through lane is ending and they must merge in the indicated direction. The plain “Lane Ends” symbol sign is a separate designation (W4-2). This sign is discontinued in the MUTCD 11th Edition; the face shown is the official FHWA Standard Highway Signs 2004 Edition depiction (W9-2L). In the field, W9-2 Lane Ends Merge Left (Right) is typically positioned at the advance warning area, ahead of the work. Common deployments include lane reductions ahead of a closure; supplements the W4-2L / W4-2R lane-ends symbols; used on higher-speed approaches needing extra notice. Always confirm its size, retroreflective sheeting, spacing, and placement against the CA MUTCD 2026 and the reviewing agency before finalizing the traffic control plan.
Advance warning area, ahead of the work.
Typical minimum: 48" × 48" on conventional roads; 60" × 60" on expressways and freeways.
Used in California work zones as the LANE ENDS MERGE LEFT (RIGHT) word-message sign where a lane reduction needs emphasis; the California equivalent is W75(CA).
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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