This lesson focuses on the foundational 'priority to the right' rule, a key concept in the Dutch driving theory test for category B. It builds upon basic understanding of road signs and intersections, preparing you for more complex priority situations covered later in this unit.
Lesson content overview
Explore search topics learners often look for when studying Priority to the Right and Left. These topics reflect common questions about road rules, driving situations, safety guidance, and lesson level theory preparation for learners in the Netherlands.
Find clear answers to common questions learners have about Priority to the Right and Left. Learn how the lesson is structured, which driving theory objectives it supports, and how it fits into the overall learning path of units and curriculum progression in the Netherlands. These explanations help you understand key concepts, lesson flow, and exam focused study goals.
The 'priority to the right' rule applies at intersections of roads of equal importance where there are no traffic lights, no priority signs (like a yield or stop sign), and no road markings (like 'shark teeth') indicating otherwise. In such cases, you must always give way to traffic coming from your right.
Yes, several exceptions exist. You do not need to give priority to the right if you are exiting a private driveway, a unpaved road, or a parking area onto a paved road. Also, trams always have priority, regardless of which side they are on.
Trams have a special priority status in the Netherlands. Even if the tram is on your left, you must always give way to it. If the tram is on your right and approaching the intersection, you must yield to it as well, as it has priority over all other traffic.
In a 'woonerf' (residential yard), there are usually signs indicating it's a woonerf and often a 15 km/h speed limit. While general traffic rules might seem to apply, the woonerf is primarily for residents, and you must drive very slowly and carefully, being mindful of pedestrians and cyclists. The priority rules can be less straightforward and the focus is on extreme caution, not strict right-of-way.
If the car on your right is also waiting, it implies they are acknowledging your priority or are unsure. However, always exercise caution. It's better to make brief eye contact or a slight gesture if safe to do so, but never assume. If you have clear right of way, proceed cautiously. If in doubt, wait for them to go or for the situation to become clearer.