Logo
Dutch Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

The K1 Sign: Your Close-Range Motorway Navigation Aid

K1 - Low-Level Motorway Information Sign Dutch road sign meaning

The K1 sign, a low-mounted motorway information panel, provides crucial short-range directions for upcoming exits and lane allocations. Unlike overhead signs, these are positioned closer to eye level, making them easier to read, especially in heavy traffic or poor weather conditions. Treat them as confirmation of route choices you've already made based on earlier, higher advance signs, and use them to verify your intended lane or exit.

About the K1 - Low-Level Motorway Information Sign road sign

Learn the key details of the K1 - Low-Level Motorway Information Sign 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 K1

This information sign is a low mounted direction panel placed close to the carriageway on a motorway or autoweg. It repeats and clarifies details from earlier, higher advance signs such as lane destinations, exit numbers and important cities. Because it sits nearer to eye level, it is easier to read in dense traffic or bad weather and helps confirm lane choices without sudden corrections.

Meaning of K1

This sign is a low mounted information board along the motorway that provides short range directions for lanes and exits directly ahead. It confirms choices you made from earlier advance signs and helps you stay in the correct lane without sudden last minute maneuvers. Use it to double check your route quietly while maintaining a steady, predictable driving style.

Allowed actions for K1

Use the sign to confirm your chosen exitMaintain a steady speed while reading the panel brieflySignal in good time before any lane changeComplete necessary lane changes gradually and safely

Prohibited actions for K1

Making sudden lane changes directly at the signHard braking in the through lane to avoid a missed exitStopping on the carriageway or shoulder to read the panelCrossing solid lane lines to reach an exit at the last second

K1 - Low-Level Motorway Information Sign road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the K1 - Low-Level Motorway Information Sign 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 K1 low-level motorway sign?

The K1 sign's primary purpose is to give immediate, close-range guidance on motorways. It confirms upcoming exits and directs you to the correct lanes, especially useful when you are already near the point of decision.

How should I use the K1 sign in relation to higher overhead signs?

You should consider the K1 sign as confirmation of information already provided by higher, more distant overhead signs. The main lane or exit choice should ideally be made before you reach the K1 sign; it helps you verify and execute that decision.

What are common mistakes learners make with K1 signs during the theory test?

A common mistake is relying too heavily on the K1 sign for the initial decision, potentially leading to sudden lane changes or hard braking if the exit is missed. Learners should also remember that these signs confirm, not initiate, routing decisions. Avoid interpreting them as a reason to brake suddenly.

What actions are prohibited when approaching or passing a K1 sign?

You must avoid sudden lane changes directly at the K1 sign, as this can be dangerous. Hard braking to catch a missed exit is also prohibited, as is stopping on the carriageway to read the sign's details. Always plan your route in advance.

Are there any allowed actions or specific behaviours associated with the K1 sign?

Yes, you are encouraged to use the K1 sign to verify your chosen lane or exit. It's also important to maintain a steady speed and, if you still need to change lanes safely, to signal your intentions early well before reaching the sign.

K1 - Low-Level Motorway Information Sign road sign image

A clear reference image of the K1 - Low-Level Motorway Information Sign road sign used in the Netherlands.

K1 - Low-Level Motorway Information Sign road sign

Other names for the K1 - Low-Level Motorway Information Sign

The K1 - Low-Level Motorway Information Sign road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

Near-side motorway guideLow-mounted motorway panelImmediate motorway directionsClose-range guidance

Direction & Route Guidance (K) road sign category

The K1 - Low-Level Motorway Information Sign road sign is part of the Direction & Route Guidance (K) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.

Dive into Dutch road sign knowledge

Dutch Driving Theory B courseSpeed Signs (A) Dutch road sign categoryWarning Signs (J) Dutch road sign categoryPriority Signs (B) Dutch road sign categoryInformation Signs (L) Dutch road sign categoryBuilt-Up Area Signs (H) Dutch road sign categorySupplementary Plates (OB) Dutch road sign categoryK12 Local Signpost — District Names Dutch road signClosure & One-Way Signs (C) Dutch road sign categoryK2 Advance Warning for Motorway Exit Dutch road signK3 Motorway Service Area Information Dutch road signK6 Information Panels (Non-Motorway) Dutch road signK13 Local Signpost — District Numbers Dutch road signMandatory Direction Signs (D) Dutch road sign categoryK1 Low-Level Motorway Information Sign Dutch road signDirection & Route Guidance (K) Dutch road sign categoryParking and Stopping Signs (E) Dutch road sign categoryK4 High-Level Motorway Information Sign Dutch road signOvertaking & Lane Directives (F) Dutch road sign categoryK8 Stack Sign for Cyclists & Moped Riders Dutch road signK5 Advance Information Sign (Non-Motorway) Dutch road signK7 Fingerposts for Cyclists & Moped Riders Dutch road signArea, Road & Path Designations (G) Dutch road sign categoryK10 Advance Warning Panel Within Built-Up Area Dutch road signK14 Route for Transport of Hazardous Materials Dutch road signK11 Lane (Pre-Sort) Instructions — Non-Motorway Dutch road signK9 Diversion with Alternative Route (Non-Motorway) Dutch road signK15 Hazardous Materials Route Indication on Information Signs Dutch road sign