Warning sign · MUTCD W8-3
Pavement Ends Sign
The paved road ends ahead and changes to gravel, dirt or another unpaved surface. Traction and control will be reduced.
- Shape
- Diamond
- Color
- Yellow background, black 'PAVEMENT ENDS' text and border
What to do
Slow down before the pavement ends and keep a firm grip on the wheel. Avoid hard braking or sharp steering on loose surface, and increase your following distance. Expect dust and flying stones.
Where you see it
Before a paved road changes to gravel or dirt, such as at the edge of a rural area or road project.
Test trap
Do not confuse it with 'Road Ends' or 'Dead End'. Pavement Ends means the road continues on an unpaved surface; it does not mean the road itself stops or is closed.
Memory tip: Pavement ends, so grip ends: slow before the gravel.
Practice question
What does the yellow diamond sign 'PAVEMENT ENDS' tell you?
- The paved road changes to an unpaved surface
- The road is closed ahead for repairs
- A road work zone begins ahead of you
- A steep downgrade is ahead for trucks
Answer: A. It warns that paved surface ends and gravel or dirt begins, so slow down and expect less traction.
Road signs (MUTCD)