MUTCD Speed Limit signs

MUTCD speed limit signs should be installed at the beginning of each speed zone, within 200 feet after a change in speed limit, and on the right side of the roadway. On divided highways, signs should appear on both sides, and placement should ensure clear visibility without obstruction. Proper post installation is critical; see our street sign brackets for hardware options.

MUTCD speed limit signs must meet minimum retroreflectivity standards measured in candelas per lux per square meter (cd/lx/m²). White backgrounds require 50 cd/lx/m² and black legend requires 3 cd/lx/m². These requirements ensure signs remain visible at night and in low-light conditions for driver safety.

Yes, MUTCD speed limit signs can include supplemental plaques to provide additional context. These supplemental plaques must follow MUTCD design standards with white backgrounds and black text, mounted directly above or below the main sign. Check out our wide range of supplemental traffic signs.

While all states must follow federal MUTCD standards for basic speed limit sign design, states can adopt supplemental guidelines for specific situations. Some states use different default rural speed limits, variable speed limit systems, or additional warning messages, but the core sign design remains consistent nationwide.