Flagger ahead sign: what it means
The Flagger sign warns that a worker with a STOP/SLOW paddle or a flag is controlling traffic ahead. Be ready to stop.
What does the flagger ahead sign mean?
MUTCD Section 6H.15 says the Flagger sign should be used before any point where a flagger controls road users. Flaggers use a STOP/SLOW paddle, a flag or an automated device (Section 6D.05).
Quick quiz
What does the sign at the top of this page mean?
- A flagger is controlling traffic ahead.
- Traffic both ways shares one lane ahead.
- Road work ahead.
Show answer
A. A flagger is controlling traffic ahead. A flagger is stationed ahead to control traffic (MUTCD Section 6H.15). Source: MUTCD 11th Edition, Part 6, Temporary Traffic Control: Sections 6D.05, 6H.15, FHWA; MUTCD 11th Edition, FHWA
Where will you see it?
Before one-lane work zones and other places where workers direct traffic.
What should you do?
Slow down, watch for the flagger and do what the paddle says: STOP means stop, SLOW means go ahead slowly with care.
What do people get wrong?
Not seeing the flagger because you are looking at the machinery. Look for the paddle well ahead.
Common questions
What does the STOP paddle mean?
Stop. The flagger holds the STOP face toward you with the arm out to the side (MUTCD Section 6D.05).
What does the SLOW paddle mean?
Go ahead slowly, or slow down, as the flagger directs (Section 6D.05).
Compare with
One lane road ahead signTraffic both ways shares one lane ahead.
Road work ahead signRoad work ahead.
Want to test someone else? Play a road-sign quiz with friends and family.
Sources
Checked on 3 November 2026 against the MUTCD 11th Edition (FHWA), Sections 6D.05 and 6H.15.
- MUTCD 11th Edition, Part 6, Temporary Traffic Control: Sections 6D.05, 6H.15, FHWA
- MUTCD 11th Edition, FHWA. FHWA lists the current version as the 11th Edition with Revision 1, dated December 2025
Sign pictures are our own simplified drawings of the MUTCD designs, which are in the public domain (MUTCD Section 1D.06). Sources and image credits.