What grade of road must be equipped with reflective markings?

National Mandatory Standard GB 5768.3-2009 “Road Traffic Signs and Markings—Part 3: Road Traffic Markings”

General Provisions

1. Road traffic markings refer to the traffic facilities consisting of various lines, arrows, text, patterns, three-dimensional markers, raised pavement markers, and delineators that are painted or installed on roads. Their purpose is to convey information about traffic rules, warnings, directions, and other relevant details to road users. They can be used in conjunction with traffic signs or independently.

2. Roads of all grades, urban expressways, and main roads shall be equipped with reflective traffic markings in accordance with the provisions of this section; other roads may be marked according to need, also following the provisions of this section.

Interpretation: Reflective road markings must be installed on all classes of highways, and reflective markings must also be installed on urban expressways and main roads. (Some cities have extensively installed non-reflective, smooth markings, which do not comply with the nation’s mandatory standards.)

3. The chromatic performance of road traffic marking line colors shall comply with the provisions of GB/T 16311, “Quality Requirements and Test Methods for Road Traffic Markings.” In practical applications, if road traffic markings other than those listed in Table 1 are required, the requirements specified in Appendix A of GB 5768.1 shall be followed. Compiled by China Road Marking Coating Network.

4. Road traffic markings installed on the road surface shall be made of skid-resistant materials, and the skid resistance of the marking surface shall generally be no lower than that of the pavement on the corresponding road section.

National mandatory standard GB 51038-2015, "Code for the Installation of Road Traffic Signs and Markings in Urban Areas," stipulates:

Paint used for marking road traffic lines:

1. It should have skid resistance performance and shall not be lower than the skid resistance requirements of the road surface where it is located.

2. It should possess wear resistance to ensure a normal service life.

3. It should be highly visible and have excellent reflectivity, with visibility meeting the required standards both during the day, at night, and in rainy conditions.

4. The drying time should be short, and the operation should be simple and conducive to construction.

5. Should have excellent environmental performance.

Regulation: Urban expressways and main roads shall be equipped with reflective road markings. Secondary roads, branch roads, and other urban roads may adopt reflective road markings as needed.