The Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) is now available at 50% off the regular price! The cost for MUTCD is $55. ITE Members enjoy an additional discount, paying only $50. Order your copy TODAY!
The MUTCD is the national standard for all traffic control devices, including traffic signs, pavement markings, signals and any other device used to regulate, warn, or guide traffic. Ensuring uniformity of traffic control devices across the nation - from their messages and placement to their sizes, shapes and colors--helps to reduce crashes and traffic congestion.
The first comprehensive update to the manual since 2003, the MUTCD features these new provisions:
- Replacing highway signs with brighter, larger and more legible ones that are easier to understand at freeway speeds. States will begin using the newer signs as existing ones wear out.
- Adding different lane markings for lanes that do not continue beyond an intersection or interchange to give drivers more warning that they need to move out of the lane if they don't intend to turn.
- Expanding the use of flashing yellow arrow signals at some intersections to give a clearer indication that drivers can turn left after yielding to any opposing traffic.
- Changing the formula used to calculate crosswalk times to give walkers more time.
- Identifying electronic toll collection lanes with purple signs - the first time purple has been sanctioned for use on highway signs.
- Adding overhead lane-use control signs to reduce confusion among drivers in unfamiliar multi-lane roadways.
This 2009 edition of the MUTCD is written by the Federal Highway Administration and is incorporated into federal regulations as the national standard for traffic control devices on all public roads and bike paths.