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Flagger sign

A flagger is stationed ahead to control traffic. It may be paired with a BE PREPARED TO STOP sign.

What to do

Slow down and obey the flagger's STOP/SLOW paddle or flag signals.

Slow down and watch for the flagger, then obey the paddle or flag signals as you would a STOP or SLOW sign.

Where it's used

Section 6H.15 says the Flagger (W20-7) sign should be used in advance of any point where a flagger is stationed to control traffic. It is a black-on-orange diamond with a symbol of a flagger holding a paddle; a FLAGGER (W20-7a) word version with a distance may be used instead. It may carry a distance plaque and is often paired with a BE PREPARED TO STOP sign.

Don't confuse it with

  • Workers: The Workers sign warns of people working in or near the road, while the Flagger sign warns that someone will be directing traffic.
  • STOP/SLOW paddle: The STOP/SLOW paddle is what the flagger holds; this diamond sign warns you before you reach them.
  • Be Prepared to Stop: BE PREPARED TO STOP is a general warning that may be used together with the Flagger sign.
Flagger sign
Type
Work zone signs
Shape
Diamond
Colors
orange, black, red
MUTCD code
W20-7
MUTCD section
6H.15

On state permit tests

Our questions for 15 states ask about this sign, including Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana and Maryland.

Test yourself

What does a warning sign showing a flag person mean? (Connecticut practice test)

  • Wind gusts
  • A parade ahead
  • A flagger is ahead; follow their directions
  • A golf course
Show answer

A flagger is ahead; follow their directions. The flag person sign warns that a flagger is ahead; always follow his or her directions.

What does the flagger sign warn you of? (Illinois practice test)

  • A school crossing guard
  • A parade ahead
  • A railroad crossing
  • A flagger working close to traffic ahead; slow down and obey their signals
Show answer

A flagger working close to traffic ahead; slow down and obey their signals. The flagger sign warns of a flagger ahead. Slow down, be ready to obey the flagger's signals, and stop if told to.

More work zone signs

Road signs testAll road signs

From the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), 11th edition, section 6H.15. Sign image: public domain, source.