Keep right except to pass sign: what it means

What does the KEEP RIGHT EXCEPT TO PASS sign mean?

MUTCD Section 2B.38 says this sign may be used where there are two lanes in one direction, to direct drivers to stay in the right-hand lane except when passing. It is usually placed at or just beyond the start of the two-lane section.

Quick quiz

Where will you see it?

On divided highways and freeways with two lanes in your direction, and on passing sections of two-lane roads.

What should you do?

Drive in the right lane. Move left to pass, then return to the right lane when it is safe.

What do people get wrong?

Cruising in the left lane because you are at the speed limit. The sign says to keep right except to pass.

Common questions

Is this the same as SLOWER TRAFFIC KEEP RIGHT?

No. KEEP RIGHT EXCEPT TO PASS applies to all traffic. SLOWER TRAFFIC KEEP RIGHT is aimed at vehicles going below the normal speed of traffic (MUTCD Section 2B.38).

Where will I see it?

Where there are two lanes in one direction, at or just beyond the start of that section (Section 2B.38).

Compare with

• Slower traffic keep right signDrive in the right lane if you are slower.
• Do not pass signPassing is not allowed here.

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), Section 2B.38.

1. MUTCD 11th Edition, Chapter 2B, Regulatory Signs, Barricades, and Gates: Section 2B.38, FHWA
2. 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.