Added Lane Right Sign
An additional lane is being added from the right side
In short: An Added Lane sign means a lane is being added from the right, so entering traffic gets its own lane and no one has to merge or yield. Stay in your lane and expect vehicles alongside you.
What to do
Be aware of additional lane. No need to merge or yield.
Tips
Traffic from right is entering a new lane, not merging into yours.
Test yourself
You see this sign while driving. What do you have to do?
Show the answer
Be aware of additional lane. No need to merge or yield.
Common mistake
Confusing with merge sign where you must yield
How to recognize this sign
Also searched as added lane, added lane right sign, or lane added sign.
Do not confuse it: A Merge sign means entering traffic must move into your lane and someone has to yield; an Added Lane sign means both roadways continue side by side. The written test regularly asks you to tell them apart.
About warning signs
Warning signs are diamond-shaped and yellow with black symbols. They alert you to hazards ahead — curves, intersections, crossings — so you have time to slow down. On the DMV written test, expect several questions asking what a specific warning sign means and what action it calls for.
Practice the rule this sign carries
What is the 'zipper merge' technique at highway lane closures?
- A. Use the full closing lane and alternate turns at the merge point
- B. Merging immediately when you first see a lane-closed sign
- C. A technique only for trucks and buses, not passenger vehicles
- D. Cutting in front of other vehicles at the last possible moment
Show answer
A. Use the full closing lane and alternate turns at the merge point — The zipper merge is recommended by transportation agencies: use the entire length of the closing lane and take turns merging at the designated merge point, one vehicle at a time. It reduces backup length and improves traffic flow.
Universal rule · checked against NHTSA Ten Tips for Safe Driving — Safe Driving Basics · verified 2026-08-01
When should you NOT use the zipper merge?
- A. When construction workers are visible in the merging lane
- B. In all situations — early merging is always preferable
- C. During rush hour only
- D. When a 'Merge Now' or 'Stay in Lane' sign directs early merging
Show answer
D. When a 'Merge Now' or 'Stay in Lane' sign directs early merging — Follow posted signs. Some work zones post 'Merge Now' signs — in those cases, follow the sign's instructions. The zipper merge is recommended when signs don't specify, but always obey posted directions.
Universal rule · checked against NHTSA Ten Tips for Safe Driving — Safe Driving Basics · verified 2026-08-01
Frequently asked questions
What does the Added Lane Right Sign mean?
An additional lane is being added from the right side
What should you do at a Added Lane Right Sign?
Be aware of additional lane. No need to merge or yield.
Reference standard: Federal Highway Administration Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices ↗. State and local agencies may add rules or operating times, so follow the complete posted sign where you drive. How DMV Prep sources content.
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