Warning sign · W331
Uneven surface sign (W331)
The road surface is uneven ahead.
What does the uneven surface sign mean?
The road surface is uneven ahead.
What should you do?
Slow down and maintain smooth control of your vehicle.
| Sign code | W331 |
|---|---|
| Sign group | Warning signs |
| Applies to | All learner codes (1, 2 and 3) |
| Test section | Road signs and markings |
How to recognise the uneven surface sign
A triangle showing a bumpy or uneven surface.
Where you will see it
On any road where there is a depression, a ridge or general unevenness.
What to do when you see it, step by step
- Slow down to avoid potholes, without endangering other traffic.
The common mistake
Do not swerve sharply to avoid a pothole; slow earlier.
Why this sign matters
Depressions, ridges and potholes can damage vehicles and upset steering. The warning lets you slow down without swerving into other traffic.
About warning signs
Warning signs tell you about a hazard ahead so you can slow down and prepare. They are red-bordered triangles. The K53 learner's test asks you to recognise signs like the uneven surface sign (W331) and choose the correct response, so learn both the picture and the action.
How to answer a test question about this sign
- Look at the shape and colour first. They tell you the group: warning signs for this one.
- Recall what the sign asks of you: slow down and maintain smooth control of your vehicle.
- Remove the options that describe a different group of sign, then choose the response that matches the action.
Want the full explanation? Read the chapter Warning signs and temporary road controls.
Signs it is often confused with
Learners mix up signs that look or sound similar. Compare the uneven surface sign with these:
Unpaved surface (W325)A triangle showing a tarred road changing to a gravel surface.
Crossroad ahead (W101)A triangle with a plain cross showing a road crossing yours.
T-junction ahead (W104)A triangle showing your road ending against a road that runs across it.Test yourself: Uneven surface sign questions
1 What does this sign mean?
- Your road ends at an angled T-junction ahead.
- The road surface is uneven ahead.
- You may not exceed 50 km/h.
Show the answer
Answer B: The road surface is uneven ahead.
Slow down and maintain smooth control of your vehicle.
Memory tip: W331 · Uneven surface
All vehicle codes
2 Which response fits this sign?
- Prepare to turn as shown by the junction layout.
- Slow down and maintain smooth control of your vehicle.
- Stay at or below 50 km/h and drive more slowly if conditions require it.
Show the answer
Answer B: Slow down and maintain smooth control of your vehicle.
Uneven surface: The road surface is uneven ahead.
Memory tip: Slow down and maintain smooth control of your vehicle.
All vehicle codes
Uneven surface sign: quick questions
What does the uneven surface sign (W331) mean?
The road surface is uneven ahead.
What should you do at the uneven surface sign?
Slow down to avoid potholes, without endangering other traffic.
Where will you see the uneven surface sign?
On any road where there is a depression, a ridge or general unevenness.
What is the common mistake with the uneven surface sign?
Do not swerve sharply to avoid a pothole; slow earlier.
Sign artwork: Southern African Development Community (SADC), public domain. AceK53 is an independent study aid. Always confirm test requirements with your driving licence testing centre.