Merge Sign
The merge sign warns that two lanes of traffic will combine into one ahead. Drivers must adjust their speed and position to merge smoothly and safely.
Last updated: April 4, 2026
A merge sign indicates that lanes from two roads are about to combine into a single lane. Unlike a yield sign, where one road has clear priority, a merge requires both sets of traffic to cooperate in combining smoothly. The sign typically shows one arrow joining another. On highways, drivers in both lanes must adjust speed and position to create a zipper-style merge.
Quick Facts
Type
Warning Sign
Shape
Diamond
Colours
Yellow background with black merging arrow symbol
In this guide
What does the Merge Sign mean?
A merge sign indicates that lanes from two roads are about to combine into a single lane. Unlike a yield sign, where one road has clear priority, a merge requires both sets of traffic to cooperate in combining smoothly. The sign typically shows one arrow joining another. On highways, drivers in both lanes must adjust speed and position to create a zipper-style merge.
What to do when you see it
When you see a merge sign, assess the traffic in the adjacent lane and adjust your speed to create a safe gap for the merge. Use turn signals to indicate your intent. On expressways, the zipper merge method is preferred: use the full length of the merge lane, then alternate with traffic in the main lane. Do not stop in the merge lane: merge at speed.
Where you'll see it in Ontario
Merge signs appear at highway on-ramps, where construction has reduced the number of lanes, at the end of an additional lane created for uphill traffic, and where two parallel roads converge. They are common on the 400-series highways in Ontario.
G1 test relevance
G1 questions on highway driving include merging technique. The key points are: merge at the speed of highway traffic, do not stop in the acceleration lane, and use signals well in advance. Forcing traffic to stop for a merging vehicle is dangerous.
Common mistakes drivers make
Stopping at the end of an on-ramp because no gap is immediately visible is a dangerous mistake that can cause rear-end collisions. Another error is failing to check mirrors and blind spots before moving into the merge lane.
Related Signs
Yield Sign
The yield sign is a downward-pointing triangle that requires drivers to slow down and give the right-of-way to traffic already in the intersection or roadway. You must stop if necessary, but you do not have to stop if the way is clear.
Learn moreLane Ends Sign
The lane ends sign warns that the current lane will soon end and drivers must merge into the adjacent lane. Drivers in the ending lane must yield to traffic in the continuing lane.
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.
Learn moreHighway Route Sign
Highway route signs identify numbered provincial and county highways in Ontario. Blue shields mark the 400-series expressways, blue rectangles mark provincial roads, and blue markers indicate county roads.
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