W9-7 RIGHT LANE FOR EXIT ONLY (AHEAD) Requirements
Application notes for W9-7 RIGHT LANE FOR EXIT ONLY (AHEAD). The official manual distinguishes mandatory standards, recommended guidance, and optional applications; consult the linked sources for the provisions that apply.
California Application & Variants
Match the lane and direction to the actual lane drop; this page displays the original RIGHT example. California requires W74(CA) for the freeway/expressway through-traffic merge warning and specifies W9-7 placement in relation to W74(CA), R3-33, and overhead Exit Only signing. W9-7 does not replace those California provisions.
1. When RIGHT LANE FOR EXIT ONLY (AHEAD) Is Used
Warns that the right lane must depart the roadway at the next exit.
- Roadway condition and warning-sign review
2. Placement and Application Notes
Position W9-7 select placement using the actual approach, sight distance, applicable California manual provisions, and responsible agency requirements..
- Place the sign where the intended road users have a clear, unobstructed view on approach.
- Use the mounting height and lateral placement specified for the sign and installation type.
- Use sign assemblies and supplemental plaques only as provided in the applicable manual and approved design.
3. Layout Sizes and Visibility Considerations
Linked-layout dimensions: 132" × 72". Check the applicable MUTCD and agency requirements for the required installation size.
- Choose size based on roadway speed, sight distance, and mounting location.
- Use the visibility and material requirements specified for this sign and installation.
4. Sign Selection Checks
- Match W9-7 to the actual condition and facility.
- Match the lane and direction to the actual lane drop; this page displays the original RIGHT example. California requires W74(CA) for the freeway/expressway through-traffic merge warning and specifies W9-7 placement in relation to W74(CA), R3-33, and overhead Exit Only signing. W9-7 does not replace those California provisions.
- Select application size and installation using the California manual and agency requirements.
Related Resources
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Verify W9-7 Requirements
This is an educational reference. Verify sign use, size, placement, and application against the current CA MUTCD, Caltrans sign specifications, Standard Plans, and the reviewing agency. Official source links are gathered in one place.
View official sourcesEducational 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. Reference editions: California MUTCD 2026 (effective January 18, 2026) and the Federal MUTCD 11th Edition with Revision 1.
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