Yield ahead sign: what it means
The Yield Ahead sign warns that there is a YIELD sign ahead that you cannot see yet. Get ready to slow down and give way.
What does the yield ahead sign mean?
MUTCD Section 2C.35 says the Yield Ahead sign is installed on the approach to a YIELD sign that is not visible far enough ahead for drivers to respond, for example because of a curve, a hill or a structure.
Quick quiz
What does the sign at the top of this page mean?
- Slow down and let other traffic go first.
- A STOP sign is coming up.
- A YIELD sign is coming up.
Show answer
C. A YIELD sign is coming up. A YIELD sign ahead is not visible far enough ahead (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 yield-controlled intersections and merges that are hidden by curves, hills, trees or parked vehicles.
What should you do?
Slow down and be ready to yield to traffic or pedestrians that have the right-of-way.
What do people get wrong?
Keeping your speed because you cannot see the YIELD sign yet. This sign is there because it is hidden.
Common questions
Why is there a Yield Ahead sign?
Because the YIELD sign cannot be seen far enough ahead (MUTCD Section 2C.35).
Is there a Stop Ahead sign too?
Yes. Stop Ahead and Signal Ahead signs work the same way.
Compare with
Want to test someone else? Play a road-sign quiz with friends and family.
Sources
Checked on 3 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.