620.5 Preferential Lane Markings for Motor Vehicles (MUTCD Chapter 3E)

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620.5.1 General (MUTCD Section 3E.01)

Guidance. Preferential lane markings are not currently used on MoDOT facilities. The Highway Safety and Traffic Division should be contacted for guidance when considering the use of preferential lane markings.

Support. Preferential lanes are established for one or more of a wide variety of special uses, including, but not limited to, bus only lanes, taxi only lanes, and light rail transit only lanes.

EPG 620.5 contains the pavement marking provisions for preferential lanes used by motor vehicles and light rail transit. EPG 914 contains information for pavement markings for bicycle lanes.

EPG 620.7 contains information for the use and application of colored pavement that can be used in preferential lanes to supplement the pavement markings described in EPG 620.5.

620.5.2 Longitudinal Markings (MUTCD Section 3E.02)

Support. Preferential lanes can take many forms depending on the level of usage and the design of the facility. They might be barrier-separated or buffer-separated from the adjacent general-purpose lanes, or they might be contiguous with the adjacent general-purpose lanes. Barrier-separated preferential lanes might be operated in a constant direction or be operated as reversible lanes. EPG 911 (MUTCD Section 1C.02) contains definitions of these terms.

Preferential lanes might be operated full-time (24 hours per day on all days), for extended periods of the day, part-time (restricted usage during specific hours on specified days), or on a variable basis (such as a strategy for a managed lane).

Standard. The left-hand and right-hand edge lines and lane lines used for preferential lanes that are adjacent to general-purpose lanes where traffic is flowing in the same direction shall be in accordance with Table 620.5.2.1.

Table 620.5.2.1 Standard Edge Line and Lane Line Markings for Preferential Lanes
Type of Preferential Lane Left-Hand Line Right-Hand Line
Barrier-Separated, Non-Reversible A normal solid single yellow edge line A normal solid single white edge line (see Drawing A in Figure 620.5.2.1)
Barrier-Separated, Left-Hand Side A normal solid single yellow edge line A wide solid double white line along both edges of the buffer space where crossing is prohibited (see Drawing A in Figure 620.5.2.2)
A wide solid single white line along both edges of the buffer space where crossing is discouraged (see Drawing B in Figure 620.5.2.2)
A wide broken (intermittent) single white line along both edges of the buffer space, or a wide broken (intermittent) single white line within the buffer space (resulting in wider lanes), where crossing is permitted (see Drawing C in Figure 620.5.2.3)
Barrier-Separated, Right-Hand Side A wide solid double white line along both edges of the buffer space where crossing is prohibited, or a wide solid single white line along both edges of the buffer space where crossing is discouraged (see Drawing D in Figure 620.5.2.3)
A wide broken (intermittent) single white line along both edges of the buffer space, or a wide broken (intermittent) single white line within the buffer space (resulting in wider lanes), where crossing is permitted (see Drawing D in Figure 620.5.2.3)
A wide dotted single white line within the buffer space (resulting in wider lanes) where crossing is permitted for any vehicle to perform a right-turn maneuver (see Drawing D in Figure 620.5.2.3) 		A normal solid single white edge line (if warranted)
Contiguous, Left-Hand Side A normal solid single yellow edge line A wide solid double white lane line where crossing is prohibited (see Drawing A in Figure 620.5.2.4)
A wide solid single white lane line where crossing is discouraged (see Drawing B in Figure 620.5.2.4)
A wide broken (intermittent) single white lane line where crossing is permitted (see Drawing C in Figure 620.5.2.4)
Contiguous, Right-Hand Side A wide solid double white lane line where crossing is prohibited (see Drawing D in Figure 620.5.2.4)
A wide solid single white lane line where crossing is discouraged (see Drawing D in Figure 620.5.2.4)
A wide broken (intermittent) single white lane line where crossing is permitted (see Drawing D in Figure 620.5.2.4)
A wide dotted single white lane line where crossing is permitted for any vehicle to perform a right-turn maneuver (see Drawing D in Figure 620.5.2.4) 		A normal solid single white lane line (if warranted)
Notes:
  1. If there are two or more preferential lanes, the lane lines between the preferential lanes shall be normal broken (intermittent) white lines.
  2. The standard lane markings listed in this table are provided in a tabular format for reference.

If there are two or more preferential lanes for traffic moving in the same direction, the lane lines between the preferential lanes shall be normal width broken (intermittent) white lines.

Preferential lanes for motor vehicles shall have appropriate regulatory signs in accordance with MUTCD Sections 2G.03 through 2G.07.

Support. Figure 620.5.2.1 illustrates pavement markings used for barrier-separated preferential lanes. Figure 620.5.2.2 and 620.5.2.3 illustrates pavement markings used for buffer-separated preferential lanes. Figure 620.5.2.4 illustrates pavement markings used for contiguous preferential lanes.

This figure shows two eastbound lanes with “EZ PASS ONLY” markings in both lanes and a barrier or physical separation from general purpose lanes to the south. A barrier or median is shown to the north.
Figure 620.5.2.1 Markings for Barrier-Separated Preferential Lanes

Figure 620.5.2.2 Markings for Buffer-Separated Preferential Lanes (Sheet 1 of 2)

Figure 620.5.2.3 Markings for Buffer-Separated Preferential Lanes (Sheet 2 of 2)

Figure 620.5.2.4 Markings for Contiguous Preferential Lanes

Guidance. Engineering judgment should determine the need for supplemental devices such as tubular markers or other channelizing devices (see EPG 620.8).

Where preferential lanes and other travel lanes are separated by a buffer space wider than 4 feet and crossing the buffer space is prohibited, chevron markings (see EPG 620.2.24) should be placed in the buffer area (see Drawing A in Figure 620.5.2.2).

The buffer space for a conventional road should be designed so that it is not misinterpreted as on-street parking, a bicycle lane, or any other type of lane.

Option. If a full-time contiguous preferential lane is separated from the other travel lanes by a wide broken (intermittent) single white line (see Drawing C in Figure 620.5.2.4), the spacing or skip pattern of the line may be reduced and the width of the line may be increased.

Standard. At direct exits from a preferential lane, dotted white line markings shall be used to separate the tapered or parallel deceleration lane for the direct exit (including the taper) from the adjacent continuing preferential through lane, to reduce the chance of unintended exit maneuvers.

The longitudinal pavement markings used for preferential lanes that are adjacent to general-purpose lanes where traffic is flowing in the opposite direction (see Figure 620.5.2.5) shall be in accordance with Table 620.5.2.2.

Table 620.5.2.2 Standard Center Line and Edge Line Markings for Counter-Flow Preferential Lanes on Divided Highways
Type of Preferential Lane Center Line on Left-Hand Side Edge Line on Left-Hand Side
Full-Time Contiguous A normal width solid double yellow line A normal solid single white line (if warranted)
Full-Time Buffer-Separated A normal width solid double yellow line along both edges of the buffer space A normal solid single white line (if warranted)


Support. Figure 620.5.2.5 illustrates pavement markings used for counter-flow preferential lanes on divided highways or on transitions to and from other divided highways such as bridges and crossovers.

Option. Tubular markers or other channelizing devices (see EPG 620.8) may also be used in addition to longitudinal markings to separate the opposing lanes when a counter-flow preferential lane operation is in effect.


Figure 620.5.2.5 Markings for Counter-Flow Preferential Lanes on Divided Highways

620.5.3 Preferential Lane Word and Symbol Markings (MUTCD Section 3E.03)

Support. EPG 620.2.19 through EPG 620.2.21 contain information on general applications of word and symbol markings.

Standard. When a preferential lane is established, the preferential lane shall be marked with one or more of the following word or symbol markings for the preferential lane use specified:

A. Bus only lane or bus stop—the word marking BUS ONLY or BUS STOP.
B. Taxi only lane or taxi stand—the word marking TAXI ONLY or TAXI STAND.
C. Light rail transit lane—the word marking LRT ONLY.
D. Other type of preferential lane—a word marking appropriate to the restriction.

Guidance. If multiple preferential lane uses are allowed in a single lane, the word or symbol marking for each preferential lane should be used.

Standard. Pavement word or symbol markings for motorcycles and Inherently Low Emission Vehicles (ILEV) shall not be used to mark the preferential lane if motorcycles and ILEVs are allowed to use the preferential lane.

Static or changeable message regulatory signs (see MUTCD Sections 2G.03 through 2G.07) shall be used with preferential lane word or symbol markings.

All preferential lane word and symbol markings shall be white and shall be positioned laterally in the approximate center of the preferential lane.

Option. Lane-use arrow markings may be placed on the curb lanes on approaches to intersections to signify non-preferential road users can use the lane for turning movements.

Guidance. All longitudinal pavement markings, as well as word and symbol pavement markings, associated with a preferential lane should end at approximately where the Preferential Lane Ends (R3-12a or R3-12c) sign (see MUTCD Section 2G.07) designating the downstream end of the preferential only lane restriction is installed.

The spacing of the markings should be based on engineering judgment that considers the operating speed, block lengths, distance from intersections, and other factors that affect clear communication to the road user.

In addition to a regular spacing interval, the preferential lane marking should be placed at strategic locations such as major decision points, direct exit ramp departures from the preferential lane, and along access openings to and from adjacent general-purpose lanes. At decision points, the preferential lane marking should be placed on all applicable lanes and should be visible to approaching traffic for all available departures. At direct exits from preferential lanes where extra emphasis is needed, the use of word markings (such as “EXIT” or “EXIT ONLY”) in the deceleration lane for the direct exit and/or on the direct exit ramp itself just beyond the exit gore should be considered.

620.5.4 Markings for Part-Time Travel on a Shoulder (MUTCD Section 3E.04)

Support. Shoulders are sometimes used to add capacity to a roadway in peak hour conditions to provide for transit or to provide higher throughput when open to all traffic.

A shoulder that has been opened to travel on a permanent, rather than a part-time basis is considered to be a travel lane and is signed and marked in accordance with other provisions of the EPG.

Standard. When part-time travel on a shoulder is open to all traffic, pavement word and symbol markings shall not be used in the shoulder.

When a shoulder is assigned part-time to a particular class or classes of vehicles, the shoulder shall be marked with one or more pavement word markings that identify the special use of the shoulder such as BUS ONLY, TRANSIT ONLY, or white lines formed in a diamond-shaped symbol (see EPG 620.5.3). A pavement word or symbol marking shall be provided in the shoulder immediately after exit and entry ramps (see Figure 620.5.4.1) or immediately departing an intersection at the full-width shoulder (see Figure 620.5.4.4). Appropriate regulatory signing (see MUTCD Section 2G.03) shall be installed with the pavement word or symbol markings.

The channelizing line emanating from the entrance ramp shall be a wide dotted line through the intersecting alignment of the shoulder to the theoretical gore (see Drawings A and B in Figure 620.5.4.1). At exit ramps, the channelizing line proceeding from the theoretical gore across the intersecting alignment of the shoulder shall be a wide dotted line (see Figure 620.5.4.1).

If used, the extension of the channelizing line at entrance ramps proceeding from the theoretical gore across the opening of the on-ramp alignment shall be a wide dotted line (see Drawing C in Figure 620.5.4.2) where it is demonstrated that traffic entering from an on-ramp stops or yields to traffic on the shoulder of the highway mainline.

An additional outside solid edge line shall be provided on the shoulder in accordance with EPG 620.2.10 and 620.2.11.

Guidance. Changes in edge line pattern or direction should occur at appropriate regulatory signs.

Option. At locations where traffic is allowed to enter, exit, or merge with the shoulder, a dotted edge line may be used either in a continuous manner or angled to the pavement edge (see Figure 620.5.4.4).

Red-colored pavement (see EPG 620.7.7) may be used on shoulders that allow only transit vehicles.

Standard. If used, red-colored pavement shall be discontinued on the shoulder through the influence area of the ramp (see Figure 620.5.4.1).

Two examples of a vertical four-lane roadway are shown. The first example shows four northbound lanes with a fourth right shoulder lane labeled “BUS ONLY.” The “BUS ONLY” lane is separated from the adjacent general-purpose lane with a single solid white line and dotted white lane lines where lane changing is allowed. The second example shows four northbound lanes with a fourth right shoulder HOV lane labeled with two white diamonds. The HOV lane is separated from the adjacent general-purpose lane with a single solid white line and dotted white lane lines where lane changing is allowed.
Figure 620.5.4.1 Markings for Part-Time Travel on Shoulder and Application of Pavement Word Markings (Sheet 1 of 3)

Two examples of a vertical three-lane roadway are shown. The first example shows three northbound lanes with the third right shoulder lane labeled “BUS ONLY.” The “bus only” lane is separated from the adjacent general-purpose lane with a single solid white line and dotted white lane lines where lane changing is allowed. The second example shows three northbound lanes with the third right shoulder HOV lane labeled with a white diamond. The HOV lane is separated from the adjacent general-purpose lane with a single solid white line and dotted white lane lines where lane changing is allowed.
Figure 620.5.4.2 Markings for Part-Time Travel on Shoulder and Application of Pavement Word Markings (Sheet 2 of 3)

Two examples of a vertical roadway are shown. The first example shows four northbound lanes with the fourth right shoulder lane labeled “BUS ONLY.” A bus shelter and a bus platform are shown to the right of the “bus only” lane. The “only bus” lane is separated with a single solid white lane line, dotted white lane lines where lane changing is allowed, and a splitter island. The second example shows three northbound lanes with the third HOV lane on the left shoulder, labeled with two white diamonds. The HOV lane is separated from the other lanes with a single solid yellow lane line.
Figure 620.5.4.3 Markings for Part-Time Travel on Shoulder and Application of Pavement Word Markings (Sheet 3 of 3)

Two examples of a vertical four-lane roadway with two intersections are shown. The first example shows four northbound lanes with the fourth right shoulder lane labeled “BUS ONLY.” Broken white lines taper across the shoulder in advance of right-turn arrow pavement markings in the “only bus” lane. Starting from the bottom and facing northbound traffic, an R3-20 sign, “Part-time travel on a shoulder signing (see Chapter 2G)”, and another R3-20 sign are shown. These are followed by an R3-7 with a R3-7aP sign assembly, which is then followed by another “Part-time travel on a shoulder” sign. The second example shows four northbound lanes with the fourth right shoulder lane labeled “BUS ONLY.” Starting from the bottom and facing northbound traffic, an R3-20 sign, “Part-time travel on a shoulder signing (see Chapter 2G),” and another R3-20 sign are shown. These are followed by an R3-7 with a R3-7aP sign assembly, which is then followed by another Part-time travel on a shoulder sign.
Figure 620.5.4.4 Markings for Part Time Travel on Shoulder Through Intersection
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