Lane Use Control Sign
Lane use control signs use arrows to show which manoeuvres are permitted from each lane at an intersection. Drivers must follow the arrow in the lane they occupy.
Last updated: April 4, 2026
Lane use control signs are overhead or roadside signs with arrows indicating the permitted direction of travel from each lane. A straight arrow means proceed straight only. A curved arrow means turn only. A combination arrow means either manoeuvre is permitted. These signs legally assign lanes at complex intersections and drivers must follow the arrow for their chosen lane.
Quick Facts
Type
Regulatory Sign
Shape
Rectangular, typically overhead
Colours
White or black background with directional arrows
In this guide
What does the Lane Use Control Sign mean?
Lane use control signs are overhead or roadside signs with arrows indicating the permitted direction of travel from each lane. A straight arrow means proceed straight only. A curved arrow means turn only. A combination arrow means either manoeuvre is permitted. These signs legally assign lanes at complex intersections and drivers must follow the arrow for their chosen lane.
What to do when you see it
Before reaching an intersection, check the lane use control signs and choose the correct lane for your intended direction. Once in a lane, you must follow the direction shown unless it is unsafe to do so. Changing lanes at the intersection after the stop line is prohibited and can cause collisions.
Where you'll see it in Ontario
Lane use control signs are mounted overhead on gantry structures at major urban intersections, on the roadway as pavement arrows, and on signs beside the road at smaller intersections. They are especially important where left-turn-only or right-turn-only lanes exist.
G1 test relevance
G1 test scenarios often present an intersection with lane use control arrows and ask which lane a driver in a specific position must use to make a certain turn. Candidates must understand that combination arrows allow choice, but single-direction arrows are mandatory.
Common mistakes drivers make
Driving in a straight-only lane and attempting to turn at the last moment is a common and dangerous error. Another mistake is ignoring pavement arrows, which have the same legal force as overhead lane signs.
Related Signs
No Left Turn Sign
The no left turn sign prohibits drivers from making a left turn at that intersection or road section. The sign may apply at all times or only during the hours posted below the symbol.
Learn moreNo Right Turn Sign
The no right turn sign prohibits drivers from making a right turn at that intersection. When posted, it also overrides the default Ontario rule that allows right turns on a red light after stopping.
Learn moreOne Way Sign
The one way sign indicates that traffic on that road travels in only one direction. All vehicles must travel in the direction shown by the arrow, and driving against the arrow is illegal.
Learn moreHOV Lane Sign
The HOV lane sign marks a High Occupancy Vehicle lane reserved for vehicles carrying two or more people, or eligible zero-emission vehicles, during the posted hours. Single-occupant vehicles are not permitted except electric vehicles with a green plate.
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