Warning sign · MUTCD W3-1
Stop Ahead
A stop sign is ahead but may be hidden by a curve, hill or trees. You will have to stop soon.
- Shape
- Diamond
- Color
- Yellow background, small red octagon with a black upward arrow
What to do
Begin slowing down now and prepare to come to a complete stop at the stop sign. Check your mirror so following drivers see your brake lights early. Do not try to pass anyone between this sign and the intersection.
Where you see it
Several hundred feet before a stop sign that drivers cannot see from a safe stopping distance.
Test trap
This sign does not require you to stop where it stands; you stop at the actual stop sign farther on. It is a warning sign, so it is yellow and diamond-shaped even though it shows a red octagon.
Memory tip: A tiny stop sign with an arrow — the real one is just up the road.
Practice question
A yellow diamond sign showing a red octagon and an arrow means:
- Stop here
- Stop for school buses
- Road closed
- Stop sign ahead — be ready to stop
Answer: D. A stop sign is ahead, possibly hidden by a curve or hill.
MUTCD sign meanings (as taught in state driver handbooks)