Center Lane Left Turn Only sign
What does it mean?
The opposing turn arrows identify a center lane shared by left-turning traffic from both directions. The lane is for preparing and making left turns, not for passing a queue or continuing as an extra through lane.
What to do when you see it
- Enter only to make a permitted left-turn movement.
- Look for an opposing driver who may also be entering the center lane.
- Follow local rules and markings for where and how far you may use the lane.
How to recognize it
- CENTER LANE and ONLY wording.
- Two left-turn arrows drawn for opposing directions.
- White upright rectangular sign.
On the road
You are turning left into a shopping plaza from a road with a shared center lane. Check that another vehicle is not entering the same space from the opposite direction before using it for the turn.
Don’t confuse it with
Left Turn Only sign
A single left-turn arrow controls one direction of approach; the center-lane sign shows shared use by opposing left turns.
Two-way traffic
A yellow two-way warning concerns opposing through traffic, not a shared center turning lane.
Put the meaning into practice
The related quiz includes this sign and other study questions. State practice can also cover local rules; it is not an official DMV exam.
Common U.S. sign recognition, reviewed October 3, 2026. Actual sign values, additional plaques and local rules can change how you should respond.