Traffic Engineering

Minnesota Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices

History of the MN Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MN MUTCD)

Minnesota first recognized the need for uniform traffic control standards in 1939, publishing its initial Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways of the State of Minnesota. This was adopted under the Highway Traffic Regulation Act of 1937 and closely followed national recommendations from the American Association of State Highway Officials (AASHO) and the National Conference on Street and Highway Safety. These organizations had earlier developed the first national MUTCD in 1935, which became the foundation for all subsequent editions.

Over time, Minnesota updated its manual to reflect changes in federal standards and state practices. Editions were adopted in 1949, 1956, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1991, 2001, 2005, 2011, and 2025, with most incorporating revisions through Commissioner’s Orders. These updates addressed evolving traffic engineering practices, safety improvements, and compliance with federal mandates.

Today, the MN MUTCD remains the authoritative guide for traffic control devices in Minnesota, balancing national uniformity with local conditions. Its development involves collaboration among the Federal Highway Administration, which ensures the manual is in substantial conformance with national standards; the Minnesota Committee on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, formed in 1993 to review and recommend language; and the Commissioner of Transportation through MnDOT, who adopts the manual as required by Minnesota Statute 169.06.

MN MUTCD, 11th Edition

2011 MN MUTCD

2005 MN MUTCD

2001 MN MUTCD

1991 MN MUTCD

1986 MN MUTCD

1974 MN MUTCD

1962 MN MUTCD

1956 MN MUTCD

1949 MN MUTCD

1939 MN MUTCD