Guide & Services Road Sign (E1-5P)
Left Exit Plaque Sign Meaning & Driving Rules
The Left Exit Plaque (MUTCD E1-5P) warns highway drivers that an upcoming exit ramp is located on the LEFT side of the highway rather than the standard right side.
Required Driver Action & Right-of-Way Protocol
Move into the far left lane early. Be prepared for vehicles in the left lane to slow down as they approach the exit ramp.
Detailed Overview & Purpose
Over 95% of highway exits in the United States exit from the right-hand lane. Left exits are non-standard and carry significantly higher collision risks because motorists must exit from the fastest lane of traffic. The yellow 'LEFT EXIT' tab is mounted on the top-left corner of green guide signs to provide early warning for lane positioning.
Key Standard & Origin: Exit number plaques always correspond to exit location: if the plaque is on the LEFT of the sign, the exit is on the left; if on the RIGHT, the exit is on the right.
Where You'll Find This Sign
Mounted on the top-left corner of overhead green guide signs 1 to 2 miles before left-side freeway exits.
Common Driver Mistakes to Avoid
Waiting until the last second to cross multiple lanes of traffic to make a left-hand freeway exit.
How This Sign Appears on the DMV Knowledge & Road Test
A critical highway design question on modern permit exams regarding exit plaque placement and left-lane risks.
Legal Penalties and Moving Violations
Cutting across multiple highway lanes to reach an exit carries reckless driving moving violation citations.
When you encounter the official Left Exit Plaque (E1-5P) on a roadway, what is your legal duty?
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