The OB-401 'Rule Applies After... km' traffic sign in the Netherlands indicates that a new traffic rule or restriction will become effective after a specific distance, shown in kilometers. This advanced warning is crucial, especially on high-speed roads, as it allows drivers ample time to prepare for the upcoming change in regulations. You should use this time to adjust your speed, plan lane changes, and be ready to comply fully from the indicated start point onwards.
Learn the key details of the OB-401 - Rule Applies After … km road sign, including its function, what it communicates to drivers, and how it applies in real traffic situations in the Netherlands. Use this overview to understand the sign clearly and recognise it confidently during the Dutch driving theory exam.
The after distance plate is a rectangular supplementary panel that shifts the starting point of the main sign to a place further along the road. It is especially useful on high speed roads like an autosnelweg, where drivers need time to react safely to upcoming changes. The distance on the plate shows how far ahead the rule will begin, and an extra sign or marker usually indicates the exact start location.
This plate tells you that the rule on the main sign will only start after the distance shown, for example after 200 m or after 2 km. It gives you advance warning so you can calmly prepare for a new speed limit, lane use rule, or restriction further ahead. You should already plan lane changes and adjust your driving so you can comply exactly at the start point.
Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the OB-401 - Rule Applies After … km road sign. Learn how the sign works, what rules it represents, and how it affects real driving situations. This FAQ strengthens your understanding and supports accurate decision making for the Dutch driving theory exam in the Netherlands.
This sign means that a specific traffic rule, prohibition, or obligation will begin at the distance indicated on the sign (e.g., 'after 2 km'). It's an advance warning sign to give you time to prepare.
When you see this sign, you should mentally prepare for the upcoming rule. This means you can start planning to change lanes if necessary or begin to progressively adjust your speed so you are ready to comply by the time you reach the stated distance.
A common mistake is to ignore the sign until the last moment, or to assume the rule applies immediately. The purpose of this sign is to give you advance notice, so delaying your preparation until the last moment defeats its purpose. Always be ready to comply from the indicated start point.
Yes, there can be advance repeaters of the same sign to reinforce the message. The actual legal effect of the upcoming rule begins precisely at the distance marked on the sign, not before.
This sign tests your ability to anticipate and prepare for changes in traffic rules. The exam might present a scenario where you see this sign and have to choose the correct action, emphasizing proactive driving rather than reactive behaviour.
A clear reference image of the OB-401 - Rule Applies After … km road sign used in the Netherlands.
The OB-401 - Rule Applies After … km road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The OB-401 - Rule Applies After … km road sign is part of the Supplementary Plates (OB) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.