The need for a laboratory variable-speed friction tester was recognized several years ago when emphasis was placed on laboratory test procedures to predict pavement skid resistance in the field. A tester was needed that could provide speed gradients on small samples or speed gradients that are comparable to those obtained by using the locked wheel skid trailer. The variable-speed friction tester measures pavement or pavement sample friction at various speeds and simulates the capability of the ASTM locked wheel skid trailer with which an excellent field correlation has been obtained. The variable-speed friction tester is reasonably portable and may be used to measure friction values on ramps, curves, city streets, and short bridges where towed-type testers usually cannot be used.