What Do Pavement Arrows and Turn-Lane Markings Mean?

Directional arrows and words painted on the road help drivers understand which movements are allowed from each lane. Recognizing them early prevents sudden lane changes, missed turns, and conflicts at intersections.

Quick answer: Pavement arrows show which direction or directions a lane may be used for. A single turning arrow commonly identifies a turn-only lane; a straight arrow indicates through travel; and a combined arrow allows the indicated choices. An ONLY marking or corresponding lane-use sign reinforces a required movement. Always follow the signs, signals and traffic rules for that location.

How to read the most common pavement arrows

  • Straight arrow: Lane intended for through movement.
  • Left or right arrow: Lane intended for the indicated turn, often a mandatory turn-only lane.
  • Straight and turn arrows together: Either indicated movement is allowed, unless another traffic control restricts it.
  • U-turn arrow: Indicates a U-turn movement from that lane when permitted.
  • Lane-reduction arrow: Warns drivers that a lane is ending or merging into an adjacent lane.
  • ONLY pavement marking: Indicates a lane reserved for the specified movement or use.

Five steps to choosing the correct lane

  1. Look ahead for lane-use signs. Overhead or roadside signs may warn about a turn-only lane before its arrows become visible.
  2. Read the pavement arrows. Identify whether your intended movement is straight, left, right, U-turn, or one of two permitted options.
  3. Choose your lane early. Signal and change lanes only across permitted markings when you have adequate space.
  4. Follow the signal for your movement. Check for turning arrows, traffic lights, pedestrians and cross traffic.
  5. Commit safely to the lane's legal movement. If you end up in a mandatory turn lane by mistake, turn as directed rather than swerving or illegally driving straight.

What does a single turn arrow mean?

When a marked lane contains a left-turn or right-turn arrow indicating a mandatory movement, it is intended for that turn. Many turn lanes include repeated arrows and an ONLY marking or lane-use sign. A driver should not travel straight through from a mandatory turn lane, even when the route ahead looks open. In unusual or temporary traffic-control conditions, follow applicable signs and directions from authorized personnel.

What does a combined straight-and-turn arrow mean?

It shows that the lane is designated for more than one movement—for example, straight ahead or right turn. Check which signal controls your maneuver, since a right-turn signal phase may differ from the through signal. Before turning, check crosswalks and yield when required. For more on turning safely, read our guide to safe left and right turns.

What does ONLY painted on the pavement mean?

ONLY tells drivers that a lane is designated for a particular movement or vehicle use. It can appear with turn arrows or alongside signs such as LEFT TURN ONLY. Do not interpret a pavement arrow in isolation: regulatory signs, lane design and traffic signals all work together to direct movement.

How do lane-reduction arrows differ from turn arrows?

A lane-reduction arrow warns that a lane is dropping or its traffic must merge, rather than making a left or right turn at an intersection. Check the merge signs, use your mirrors and blind spots, and move across only when safe. Avoid forcing your way into another driver's space. See why checking mirrors and blind spots matters.

What if the arrow is faded or covered by traffic?

Use multiple clues: advance signs, repeated arrows, lane boundaries, signals and the intersection's physical layout. Reduce speed, avoid last-second lateral movements, and follow the legal movement for the lane you are occupying. A missed turn is safer than an abrupt maneuver across several lanes.

How do pavement arrows relate to solid or broken lines?

Arrows describe where your lane goes; lines help determine where you may change lanes or cross the roadway. A lane-use arrow never overrides a double-solid line or a no-lane-change rule. Read What Do Solid and Broken Lane Lines Mean? to understand the difference.

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Frequently asked questions about pavement arrows

What does a straight arrow painted in a lane mean?

A straight-ahead arrow generally indicates that the lane is intended for through movement. Follow any accompanying signs, signals and lane restrictions.

Does a left-turn arrow painted on the road mean you must turn left?

A single left-turn arrow in a lane designated for left turns indicates that you must turn left rather than travel straight, subject to lawful signs and signals.

What if a lane has both a straight arrow and a turning arrow?

A combined arrow normally permits either of the indicated movements. Follow accompanying signs and signals and choose the correct lane before the intersection.

What does ONLY painted in a traffic lane mean?

ONLY reinforces a mandatory lane movement, typically a turn-only lane. The roadway's signs and arrows help specify the required direction.

What does a U-turn pavement arrow mean?

It indicates a lane designated for a U-turn movement where that maneuver is allowed. You must still obey signals, posted restrictions and local rules.

What if you are in a turn-only lane but need to go straight?

Do not make an unsafe last-second lane change or drive straight from a mandatory turn lane. Follow the required movement legally and safely, then find an appropriate route back.

Related driving knowledge guides

Official sources and further reading

Reviewed October 29, 2026. Follow the signs, lane markings and applicable rules in your jurisdiction.