Be prepared to stop sign: what it means
The BE PREPARED TO STOP sign warns that traffic ahead may be stopped, for example at a traffic signal. Be ready to stop.
What does the BE PREPARED TO STOP sign mean?
MUTCD Section 2C.35 says the BE PREPARED TO STOP (W3-4) sign may be used to warn of stopped traffic caused by a traffic signal. Before a signal, it is used in addition to a Signal Ahead sign and placed after it. Flashing lights may be added.
Quick quiz
What does the sign at the top of this page mean?
- Traffic lights are ahead.
- A STOP sign is coming up.
- Traffic may be stopped ahead.
Show answer
C. Traffic may be stopped ahead. It warns of stopped traffic ahead, such as at a traffic signal (MUTCD Section 2C.35). Source: MUTCD 11th Edition, Chapter 2C, Warning Signs and Object Markers: Section 2C.35, FHWA; MUTCD 11th Edition, FHWA
Where will you see it?
Before signals on fast roads, especially where the signal is hidden by a curve or hill.
What should you do?
Ease off the gas and watch for brake lights and the signal ahead.
What do people get wrong?
Keeping your speed because the light was green a moment ago.
Common questions
What if lights on the sign are flashing?
When flashing lights are linked to the signal, a WHEN FLASHING plaque may be added: the flashing means traffic is likely stopped.
Is it always used with a signal?
Section 2C.35 says that when used before a signal, it must also have a Signal Ahead sign.
Compare with
Want to test someone else? Play a road-sign quiz with friends and family.
Sources
Checked on 4 November 2026 against the MUTCD 11th Edition (FHWA), Section 2C.35.
- MUTCD 11th Edition, Chapter 2C, Warning Signs and Object Markers: Section 2C.35, FHWA
- MUTCD 11th Edition, FHWA. FHWA lists the current version as the 11th Edition with Revision 1, dated December 2025
Sign pictures are our own simplified drawings of the MUTCD designs, which are in the public domain (MUTCD Section 1D.06). Sources and image credits.