Traffic Signs
Know all Dutch traffic signs — from warning signs and prohibition signs to mandatory signs and information signs.
Traffic signs are the visual language of the road. They inform, warn, prohibit and instruct — without words, in a fraction of a second. In the Netherlands all signs are laid down in the RVV 1990 and coded in letters and numbers: J for warning signs, C for prohibition signs, D for mandatory signs and E for parking and stopping signs.
Warning signs are red triangles. They warn of a hazard ahead but impose no obligation — though they do require heightened alertness. They are usually placed 150 to 250 metres before the hazard.
Prohibition signs are red circles. They prohibit a specific action or exclude a category of vehicles. Once in force a prohibition sign remains valid until the next intersection or an explicit end sign. Mandatory signs are blue circles and prescribe a mandatory direction of travel — these must always be obeyed.
Traffic signs make up a large part of the CBR theory exam questions. By understanding the logic behind the categories — shape and colour already say a lot — you memorise signs faster and make fewer mistakes.
What will you learn here?
- ✓Red triangle = warning sign (J-series); no obligation but extra alertness required
- ✓Red circle = prohibition sign (C-series); applies until the next intersection or end sign
- ✓Blue circle = mandatory sign (D-series); always mandatory to obey
- ✓E01 prohibits parking, E02 prohibits stopping — know the difference
- ✓Shape and colour determine the category — the number gives the specific meaning
Topics
Warning signs (J-series)
5 key rules
Prohibition signs (C-series)
6 key rules
Mandatory signs (D-series)
6 key rules
Parking and stopping signs
5 key rules
Practice this topic
Test your knowledge with targeted practice questions
Frequently asked questions
What does an inverted red triangle (B06) mean?
The B06 sign (give way) requires you to reduce speed and give priority to traffic on the crossing road. You do not necessarily have to stop, but you must if necessary.
How long does a prohibition sign remain in force?
A prohibition sign applies from the sign to the next intersection, unless an end sign appears earlier. On a road without intersections the sign applies for the entire road.
What is the difference between E01 and E02?
E01 (blue circle with red diagonal stripe) prohibits parking — you may still briefly stop to let someone out. E02 (blue circle with red cross) prohibits even brief stopping.
What does the J10 sign mean?
The J10 sign warns of a slippery road surface. This requires a reduced speed and extra following distance. The sign is placed 150-250 metres before the slippery section.