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Dutch Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

This traffic sign means it applies only to lorries and buses.

OB-13 - Only Applies to Lorry and Bus Drivers Dutch road sign meaning

The OB-13 traffic sign is a Dutch regulatory sign indicating that a specific rule or restriction applies exclusively to lorries (heavy goods vehicles) and buses. Its purpose is to manage traffic flow, capacity, or environmental impact at particular locations by targeting the largest vehicle classes. When you see this sign, remember that while cars and motorcycles are exempt from this specific rule, lorries and buses must comply. It's crucial to understand this distinction, especially in the context of traffic management on specific routes or at certain times.

About the OB-13 - Only Applies to Lorry and Bus Drivers road sign

Learn the key details of the OB-13 - Only Applies to Lorry and Bus Drivers 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.

Definition of OB-13

The plate for lorries and buses is a rectangular supplementary panel placed directly below a main traffic sign and it narrows the scope of that sign to heavy goods vehicles and large buses only. It is used where road design, weight limits, emissions, noise control or safety require different rules for these vehicles. Other road users continue under the normal main sign rules unless another plate specifies otherwise.

Meaning of OB-13

This supplementary plate shows that the rule on the main sign applies specifically to lorries and buses. It tells drivers of heavy goods vehicles and large passenger buses that they must follow the indicated restriction or obligation, while most smaller vehicles follow the general rules. If you drive a lorry or bus, you adjust your speed, route, or stopping behavior to match this targeted instruction.

Allowed actions for OB-13

Apply the main sign rule when driving a lorryApply the main sign rule when driving a busFollow any stricter speed, route or stopping instructions aimed at heavy vehiclesContinue under the general traffic rules when driving vehicles not covered by the plateCombine this plate with other supplementary plates such as time or distance when present

Prohibited actions for OB-13

Assume that cars and motorcycles are bound by this plate when they are not shownIgnore the restriction when driving a lorry or busUse a prohibited route or lane with a lorry or bus contrary to the main signDisregard additional plates that further limit lorries or buses at the same location

OB-13 - Only Applies to Lorry and Bus Drivers road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the OB-13 - Only Applies to Lorry and Bus Drivers 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.

What is the main purpose of the OB-13 'Only Applies to Lorry and Bus Drivers' sign?

The OB-13 sign serves to inform drivers that a particular traffic rule or restriction, often indicated by another sign placed above or next to it, is specifically for lorries and buses. It helps manage traffic by applying rules only to the largest vehicles, which might be due to their size, weight, emissions, or impact on road capacity.

If I am driving a car or motorcycle, do I need to pay attention to the OB-13 sign?

No, if you are driving a car or motorcycle, the OB-13 sign indicates that the associated rule does not apply to you. You are exempt from the specific restriction or requirement that this sign modifies. However, always be aware of other signs that may affect your driving.

What are common exam traps related to the OB-13 sign?

A common trap in the theory exam is assuming the OB-13 sign itself imposes a rule, rather than modifying an existing one. Learners might mistakenly think it's a prohibition for cars, when in fact, it's an information sign clarifying which vehicles a different sign applies to. Always consider the OB-13 sign in conjunction with any sign displayed above it.

Can the OB-13 sign be combined with other traffic signs?

Yes, the OB-13 sign is almost always used in combination with other signs, such as speed limit signs, entry prohibition signs, or signs indicating specific route requirements. It clarifies that these combined rules only affect lorries and buses, not smaller vehicles.

What if a lorry or bus driver sees the OB-13 sign with an entry prohibition sign above it?

If a lorry or bus driver sees the OB-13 sign displayed above an entry prohibition sign (like a 'no entry' sign), it means lorries and buses are prohibited from entering that road or area. Cars and motorcycles would typically be allowed to proceed, assuming no other signs prohibit them.

OB-13 - Only Applies to Lorry and Bus Drivers road sign image

A clear reference image of the OB-13 - Only Applies to Lorry and Bus Drivers road sign used in the Netherlands.

OB-13 - Only Applies to Lorry and Bus Drivers road sign

Other names for the OB-13 - Only Applies to Lorry and Bus Drivers

The OB-13 - Only Applies to Lorry and Bus Drivers road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

Trucks & buses onlyHGV+bus plateLarge vehicle plateHeavy vehicle targeted

Supplementary Plates (OB) road sign category

The OB-13 - Only Applies to Lorry and Bus Drivers road sign is part of the Supplementary Plates (OB) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.

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