Do Not Pass Signs | Official MUTCD R4-1

Do Not Pass Signs are essential traffic control devices used to mark no passing zones on roads, private properties, industrial sites, and commercial campuses. These signs alert drivers that lane changes and passing maneuvers are prohibited, reducing the risk of collisions in areas with limited visibility, curves, hills, or oncoming traffic concerns. Property managers, municipalities, and contractors rely on this signage to keep traffic flowing safely and predictably, especially in locations where lane discipline is critical.

Each Do Not Pass Sign in our collection is manufactured using heavy duty aluminum with high intensity or diamond grade reflective sheeting for maximum visibility in day, night, and adverse weather conditions. The graphics are fade resistant, scratch resistant, and fully compliant with MUTCD regulations to ensure proper recognition by motorists and inspectors. These signs mount easily to U channel posts, square posts, breakaway systems, or existing hardware and hold up under long term outdoor exposure, vehicle drafts, and routine maintenance activities.

Whether you manage a roadway, a private development, a distribution facility, or a construction corridor, installing clear Do Not Pass signage improves safety and reinforces predictable driver behavior. Order officially compliant signs that deliver the durability and visibility your site requires.
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The "Gating" Configuration for Passing Zones

To effectively stop unsafe passing on two-lane highways, the MUTCD recommends a dual-sign "Gating" setup at the start of the zone:

  • Right Shoulder (Regulatory): Install the white R4-1 "Do Not Pass" sign. This establishes the legal infraction and must be aligned exactly where the pavement marking changes from broken to solid yellow.
  • Left Shoulder (Warning): Install the yellow W14-3 "No Passing Zone" pennant. Because it is mounted on the left (across the road), it is directly in the line of sight of a driver attempting to pull out and pass, acting as a final "fail-safe" warning.
  • The "Gate" Effect: By placing signs on both sides of the road at the same station, you create a visual "gate" that makes the restriction impossible to miss.

Federal Guidelines for Passing Zone Enforcement

Establishing a No Passing Zone is a critical safety measure on two-lane roads where sight distance is restricted by curves, hills, or bridges. While pavement markings (solid yellow lines) are the primary indicator, Do Not Pass Signs (R4-1) are the mandatory regulatory device used to legally enforce the ban. Under MUTCD Section 2B.28, these signs serve as the vertical enforcement tool that remains visible even when snow or wear obscures road lines.

R4-1 vs. W14-3: The "No Passing" System

Effective enforcement relies on a dual-sign system known as "Gating."

  • Do Not Pass (R4-1): This is the Regulatory Sign. It is a white rectangle with black text. It must be installed on the Right-Hand Side of the road at the precise beginning of the restricted zone. It establishes the legal infraction.
  • No Passing Zone Pennant (W14-3): This is the Warning Sign. It is a yellow isosceles triangle (pennant). It must be installed on the Left-Hand Side of the road to warn drivers attempting to pass that they are entering a blind zone.

Placement Standards for Liability

Improper placement is a major liability in head-on collision lawsuits.

  • The Starting Point: The Do Not Pass Sign must be erected at the exact point where the pavement marking changes from a broken line to a solid yellow line.
  • The Interval: For long no-passing zones, "Reassurance" signs should be placed periodically (every 1/2 mile) to remind drivers they are still in a restricted area.
  • The End: The restriction is lifted by the "Pass With Care" (R4-2) sign, installed where adequate sight distance resumes.

Reflectivity for High-Speed Roads

Passing maneuvers typically occur at highway speeds (55+ MPH).

  • High Intensity Prismatic (Type IV): This is the standard for Do Not Pass Signs. The micro-prismatic sheeting ensures the white background reflects clearly against the black text from 1,000+ feet away.
  • Diamond Grade (Type XI): We recommend upgrading to Diamond Grade for the Yellow Pennant (W14-3) on the left side, as it is often further from the driver's headlight beams and requires higher angularity to be seen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions regarding MUTCD compliance, installation standards, and material specifications for regulatory signage.
Do I need a sign if the road has double yellow lines?

Yes. Pavement markings are considered the "primary" control, but Vertical Signage (R4-1) is critical for enforcement and safety. Rain, snow, and faded paint can make road lines invisible. The Do Not Pass Sign provides the redundant legal notice required to uphold a traffic citation in court.
Where does the Pennant sign go?

The W14-3 No Passing Zone Pennant is unique because it is installed on the Left Side of the roadway (across from the driver). This placement is strategic: if a driver pulls into the left lane to pass, the Pennant is directly in their line of sight, warning them to abort the maneuver.
What is the standard size for these signs?

  • R4-1 (Do Not Pass): Standard size is 24" x 30". For high-speed or multi-lane roads, use 30" x 36".
  • W14-3 (Pennant): Standard size is 36" x 48" x 48". It is a large sign designed to be seen from a long distance.

Need specific code assistance?

If your project requires a specific State DOT certification or a specialized variation not listed here, please contact our Compliance Support Team for a custom specification sheet.