Regulatory Road Sign (R3-17)
Designated Bicycle Lane Sign Meaning & Driving Rules
Designates an exclusive travel lane for bicycles; motor vehicle travel is strictly prohibited.
Required Driver Action & Right-of-Way Protocol
Keep motor vehicles out of the bike lane. Look before opening doors when parked adjacent to a bike lane.
Detailed Overview & Purpose
The Designated Bicycle Lane sign (R3-17) establishes an official bike lane. Motor vehicles may only cross the bike lane where dashed lines exist to make a right turn, after yielding to all cyclists.
Key Standard & Origin: Over 35 states require at least 3 feet of clearance when passing a bicyclist.
Where You'll Find This Sign
Mounted along city and suburban streets alongside painted bike lanes.
Common Driver Mistakes to Avoid
Opening car doors into the bike lane ('dooring') without looking over your shoulder for approaching cyclists.
How This Sign Appears on the DMV Knowledge & Road Test
Major test topic on sharing the road with cyclists and avoiding 'right-hook' crashes.
Legal Penalties and Moving Violations
Blocking or driving in a designated bike lane carries traffic fines.
When you encounter the official Designated Bicycle Lane (R3-17) on a roadway, what is your legal duty?
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