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Stop Ahead: What It Means & What To Do

Stop Ahead (W3-1) - diamond yellow with black warning sign: A stop sign is ahead
MUTCD CodeW3-1
CategoryWarning Signs
ShapeDiamond
ColorYellow with black

What Does the Stop Ahead Mean?

A stop sign is ahead. Begin slowing down.

About This Sign

This advance warning sign tells drivers to prepare for a stop sign that may not be visible until close range.

Commonly Confused With

Stop Sign (R1-1) - octagon red with white regulatory sign: Come to a complete stop before the stop line or crosswalk

Stop Sign

R1-1

Signal Ahead (W3-3) - diamond yellow with black warning sign: A traffic signal is ahead

Signal Ahead

W3-3

Other Warning Signs

Sharp Turn (W1-1) - diamond yellow with black warning sign: A sharp turn is ahead

Sharp Turn

W1-1

Curve Ahead (W1-2) - diamond yellow with black warning sign: A curve is ahead

Curve Ahead

W1-2

Reverse Turn (W1-3) - diamond yellow with black warning sign: The road ahead makes two sharp turns in opposite directions

Reverse Turn

W1-3

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Stop Ahead mean?

A stop sign is ahead. Begin slowing down.

What shape and color is the Stop Ahead?

The Stop Ahead uses the Diamond shape and Yellow with black coloring.

Practice Road Sign Questions

Test your knowledge of road signs with free DMV practice tests.

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