Added Lane Sign

Introduction

Efficient merging and lane expansion are essential to smooth traffic flow. The Added Lane Sign is a lane-use guidance sign used in Canada that informs drivers of a new lane entering from the right—without merging conflict. This helps reduce confusion and collisions, especially in fast-moving traffic. It’s also part of the Ontario G1 driving test curriculum.

What Does the Added Lane Sign Mean?

This sign indicates that a new lane is joining the roadway from the right and traffic from that lane will not need to merge—they have their own lane. It features:

• Two upward-pointing arrows, both straight and separate

• A diagonal arrow joining from the right, symbolizing a lane being added

• A white background with black symbols and border, marking it as a lane-use sign

Unlike merge signs, this one shows that both streams of traffic continue independently.

Where Are Added Lane Signs Typically Placed?

You’ll encounter this sign in areas where road capacity increases or highway entrances join without merging:

• Highway on-ramps that add a dedicated lane

• Multi-lane road expansions in urban or suburban areas

• Before expressway diverges or interchanges

• Construction zones where a new temporary lane is added

• Intersections designed to minimize merging friction

The Ontario Traffic Manual (OTM) recommends placing this sign just before or at the beginning of the added lane.

How Should Drivers Respond to the Added Lane Sign?

When you see this sign:

• Stay in your lane if continuing straight

• If entering from the added lane, maintain your course without merging

• Do not weave across lanes—each lane has a dedicated path forward

• Remain aware of surrounding traffic, as others may still change lanes

• Misinterpreting this sign as a merge warning could result in:

  • Unnecessary slowing or lane changes

  • Driver confusion

  • Unsafe maneuvers or road test failure

Visual Representation of the Sign

The sign features two parallel upward arrows, with an additional arrow joining from the bottom right, all in black on a white background with a rectangular border—indicating a non-merging lane addition.

Conclusion

The Added Lane Sign helps manage multi-lane traffic with minimal interruption by clearly showing when a new lane enters the road without merging. Understanding and following this sign contributes to safe and efficient driving, and it’s a key point for passing the Ontario G1 driving test.