Regulatory Road Sign (R3-7L)
Left Lane Must Turn Left Sign Meaning & Driving Rules
Explicit text regulatory sign requiring all traffic in the leftmost lane to execute a left turn.
Required Driver Action & Right-of-Way Protocol
Turn left if remaining in this lane. Merge right early if you intend to travel straight.
Detailed Overview & Purpose
The Left Lane Must Turn Left sign (R3-7L) provides clear word instruction that the left lane ends in a mandatory turn. Drivers who do not wish to turn left must change lanes to the right well before reaching the intersection.
Key Standard & Origin: Word-message regulatory signs provide extra legal notice in advance of high-speed intersection approaches.
Where You'll Find This Sign
Posted in advance of intersections where a through-lane transitions into a dedicated turn bay.
Common Driver Mistakes to Avoid
Waiting until reaching the intersection to change lanes after realizing the lane is turn-only.
How This Sign Appears on the DMV Knowledge & Road Test
Featured in intersection lane choice and sign recognition questions.
Legal Penalties and Moving Violations
Failing to turn from a mandatory turn lane carries moving violation citations.
Sign Variations & Related Types
Right Lane Must Turn Right (R3-7R)
Mandates right turns for the rightmost lane.
When you encounter the official Left Lane Must Turn Left (R3-7L) on a roadway, what is your legal duty?
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