Keep Right Sign
The keep right sign is a regulatory sign that directs drivers to pass only on the right side of an obstruction, median, or traffic island. There are two common versions: a square white sign with a black arrow curving to the right, and a vertical rectangle divided diagonally with the right half in white and a right-pointing arrow. You'll see keep right signs at medians, traffic islands, divided highway splits, construction zones, and road obstacles. The sign tells you which side to drive on — always pass to the right of the sign. Keep right signs are especially important at divided highway junctions where driving to the left of the divider would put you in oncoming traffic. They're also placed at the start of roundabouts to remind drivers to enter by going to the right. On multilane roads, keep right signs may remind slower traffic to stay in the right lanes, allowing faster traffic to pass on the left. Many states have "keep right except to pass" laws requiring drivers to use the left lane only for passing, not for cruising. The keep right sign reinforces the fundamental rule of US road driving: slower traffic keeps right.
Rules & What to Do
Drive to the right of the sign or obstacle. Do not pass on the left where a keep right sign is posted. On multilane roads, use the right lane for normal driving and the left lane for passing. Enter roundabouts to the right.
Penalties
Driving on the wrong side of a median or obstruction after a keep right sign carries fines of $100-$300 and 2-3 points on your driving record. Driving the wrong way around a traffic island can also result in reckless driving charges.
For Commercial Drivers
CDL drivers must pay close attention to keep right signs, especially at divided highway splits. The width of commercial vehicles means even small errors in lane position can put you on the wrong side of a divider. At roundabouts, large trucks may need to use more of the road — watch for signs indicating truck routing. Always pass obstacles on the indicated side to avoid oncoming traffic conflicts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the keep right sign mean?
The keep right sign means you must drive to the right of the sign, obstacle, median, or traffic island. It tells you which side of the road to be on.
Where are keep right signs posted?
Keep right signs are posted at medians, traffic islands, highway dividers, roundabout entrances, and road obstacles. They direct you to pass on the right side.
What does keep right except to pass mean?
Keep right except to pass means you should drive in the right lane and only use the left lane when passing another vehicle. After passing, return to the right lane. Many states have laws requiring this on multilane roads.