The F21 sign indicates a lane or carriageway exclusively reserved for lorries (heavy goods vehicles). This traffic sign helps to streamline traffic flow by separating larger vehicles from lighter traffic. As a car or motorcycle driver, you are generally not allowed in this lane unless specific accompanying signs permit it, so always pay attention to additional plates.
Learn the key details of the F21 - Lorry Lane / Carriageway Only 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 lorry lane only sign designates a traffic lane intended solely for heavy goods vehicles above the weight threshold defined in Dutch regulations. It is commonly used on busy roads, approaches to junctions, or near logistics areas, where separating lorries supports smoother flow. Cars, motorcycles, and other light vehicles must not drive, stop, or park in this lane except where explicit exceptions are indicated.
This sign indicates a lane or carriageway reserved exclusively for lorries. It keeps heavy goods vehicles together in one lane to improve predictability and reduce interference with lighter traffic. Other motor vehicles may not use this lane unless a supplementary sign clearly authorizes them, for example for local access or specific turning movements.
Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the F21 - Lorry Lane / Carriageway Only 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.
The F21 sign reserves a specific lane or carriageway solely for lorries (HGVs). Its primary purpose is to improve traffic efficiency and safety by managing the movement of large vehicles separately from smaller ones, especially on busy roads.
No, unless there is an accompanying sign that explicitly allows other vehicles or specifies certain times. The F21 sign designates the lane exclusively for lorries. Driving your car or motorcycle in this lane when it's reserved for lorries is prohibited and can lead to fines or penalty points.
Always check for accompanying signs beneath the F21. If a time plate is present, it means the lane is only reserved for lorries during those specific hours. Outside of those hours, other vehicles might be permitted to use the lane, but adhere strictly to the times indicated on the sub-sign.
Generally, the F21 sign is a strict designation for lorries. However, accompanying signs can provide exceptions. For instance, a sign might indicate that only specific types of lorries or vehicles are allowed, or that other vehicles can use the lane under certain conditions or outside of peak hours.
Yes, the F21 sign is used in the Netherlands and other countries to manage traffic flow. It's important for all drivers to understand its meaning, especially during the theory exam, as it dictates specific lane usage rules for different vehicle types.
A clear reference image of the F21 - Lorry Lane / Carriageway Only road sign used in the Netherlands.

The F21 - Lorry Lane / Carriageway Only road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The F21 - Lorry Lane / Carriageway Only road sign is part of the Overtaking & Lane Directives (F) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.