Added Lane Sign
The added lane sign is a diamond-shaped yellow warning sign with a black symbol showing two lanes that join to form a wider road — neither lane ends. It tells drivers that a new lane is being added to the roadway, typically from an on-ramp or a road that feeds into the main road. The key difference between an added lane sign and a merge sign is that with an added lane, neither the existing lane nor the entering lane has to yield. Both lanes continue forward as separate lanes on the wider road. If you're on the main road and see an added lane sign, you don't need to move over — the entering traffic has its own lane. If you're the one entering the highway and see an added lane sign, you have your own lane and don't need to merge immediately. This is good news because it means less stress and no merging conflict. However, you should still be aware that the new lane may end farther ahead, eventually requiring a merge. The added lane sign reduces confusion at highway entrances where ramp traffic gets its own lane, preventing unnecessary braking and dangerous merging attempts.
CDL & Commercial Driver Notes
Added lane signs are helpful for CDL drivers because they indicate that entering traffic has its own lane — reducing the merge conflicts that are particularly stressful with commercial vehicles. However, be aware that the added lane may be shorter for commercial vehicles if a truck climbing lane ends ahead. Keep right when possible and watch for vehicles in the new lane that may not understand they don't need to merge immediately.
Also studying for your regular driver's license? See this sign on DMV Help
Rules & What to Do
If on the main road, maintain your lane — the entering traffic has its own lane. If entering the highway, you have your own lane and don't need to merge immediately. However, watch for lane ending signs farther ahead. Maintain awareness of traffic in the adjacent lane.
Penalties
No penalty associated with this warning sign. However, making unsafe lane changes near added lane areas can still result in traffic citations for improper lane usage ($100-$250).
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an added lane sign mean?
An added lane sign means a new lane is being added to the road — neither the existing traffic nor the entering traffic needs to merge. Both have their own lane that continues forward.
What is the difference between a merge sign and an added lane sign?
With a merge sign, two lanes are combining into one — someone must yield. With an added lane sign, a new lane is being added, so both the existing and entering traffic have their own lanes. No merging is required at that point.
