Dead End
The sign indicates that the road is a dead end.
When You See This Sign
When you see the Dead End sign (E17) you should understand that the road you are on does not continue for motor vehicles. Reduce your speed, look for a suitable turning place and read any supplementary plates that indicate exceptions or special rules.
Rules & Regulations
- The sign indicates that the road ahead is not a through road for motor vehicles — the road ends and you must turn around or drive back the same way.
- The sign's message applies from the sign's position onward until another traffic sign indicates otherwise.
- The sign itself does not prohibit entry for vehicles; it is an informational sign. Any restrictions (for example a ban on entry or traffic prohibited except for residents) must be indicated with additional signs.
- If a pedestrian or cycle path continues past the dead end, this may be indicated with supplementary plates or separate markings; otherwise, no further motor vehicle traffic is permitted.
Tips for Drivers
- Reduce your speed when you see the sign and start planning to turn around — look for a marked turning area or parking bay.
- Check for supplementary plates that indicate exceptions (for example 'Except residents' or 'Goods delivery') before assuming you are not allowed to enter.
- If you are driving a larger vehicle, trailer or bus, check whether you can turn around before entering — choose an alternative route if there is no turning space.
- Avoid unnecessary reversing in tight areas; use a driveway or turning area and help direct other road users if they become blocked.
Common Mistakes
- Believing that the sign forbids entry for all vehicles — it only informs that the road ends.
- Assuming that cyclists and pedestrians also cannot pass — sometimes a separate pedestrian or cycle path continues that is not covered by the sign.
- Not checking for supplementary plates and therefore missing exceptions for residents or deliveries.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Dead End
What is expected of you as a driver here?
- A The road is a dead end (cul-de-sac) — there is no through route, you must turn around to return.
- B You are approaching a place where meetings between vehicles are prohibited.
- C Parking is prohibited on both sides of the road.
- D There is an area reserved for loading and unloading here.
Exam Tip
On the theory test you may be asked whether the sign prohibits entry — remember that E17 is an informational dead-end sign and does not automatically prohibit entry unless an additional sign states so.
Did You Know?
Dead-end roads are common in residential areas and newer housing developments to reduce through traffic; the sign's primary function is to inform and prevent unnecessary vehicles from entering and needing to turn around.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Dead End mean I may not drive in at all?
No, the sign informs that the road ends and that you must turn around or drive back. Entry can still be allowed, especially for residents or delivery vehicles if this is indicated with a supplementary plate.
Does Dead End also apply to cyclists and pedestrians?
Not necessarily — the sign primarily concerns motor vehicle traffic. If a pedestrian or cycle path continues past the dead-end boundary it is often indicated with separate signage or markings.
What should I do if I have a long load or trailer and see the sign?
Check whether you can turn around before entering. If the area is too tight, choose another route or park safely and turn where there is room instead of attempting complex reversing.
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