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Dutch Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

You must use this cycle path: G11 Mandatory Cycle Path sign ahead.

G11 - Start of Mandatory Cycle Path Dutch road sign meaning

The G11 sign indicates the start of a mandatory cycle path, meaning cyclists are legally required to use this dedicated facility and are prohibited from riding on the adjacent carriageway. This sign is crucial for separating bicycle traffic from motor vehicles to enhance safety and traffic flow. As a driver, while this sign primarily addresses cyclists, it implies you should be aware of cyclists consistently using this path and expect them not to be on the main road.

About the G11 - Start of Mandatory Cycle Path road sign

Learn the key details of the G11 - Start of Mandatory Cycle Path 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 G11

At the beginning of a mandatory cycle path, the round blue sign shows a white bicycle symbol and signals a dedicated verplicht fietspad. Cyclists must ride on this path wherever it is passable and may not choose the parallel carriageway. Local rules for snorfiets users are often shown on supplementary plates, while bromfiets riders usually use a different facility. Cyclists should respect any shared use markings, side road priorities and crossings along the path.

Meaning of G11

This sign indicates the start of a mandatory cycle path, or verplicht fietspad, that cyclists are obliged to use. From this point, bicycle traffic must use the marked path instead of the main carriageway. The facility separates cyclists from motor vehicles, so riders must stay on it, adjust their speed and behave predictably toward other path users.

Allowed actions for G11

Ride on the indicated cycle path in the direction of travelLeave the path briefly only where necessary and safe, for example to turn or avoid an obstacleYield appropriately at side roads, crossings and junctions according to markings and signsAdapt speed to other cyclists, pedestrians and local conditionsFollow any supplementary plates indicating rules for snorfiets users

Prohibited actions for G11

Riding a bicycle on the adjacent carriageway where the mandatory path is availableBlocking the cycle path with parked vehicles or unnecessary stoppingUsing the path with unauthorized vehicles such as cars or heavy mopeds where prohibitedIgnoring give way markings or traffic lights at crossings along the pathOvertaking dangerously without leaving sufficient space for other path users

G11 - Start of Mandatory Cycle Path road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the G11 - Start of Mandatory Cycle Path 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 does the G11 'Start of Mandatory Cycle Path' sign mean?

The G11 sign means that a cycle path is mandatory for cyclists. They must use this path and are not allowed to cycle on the main road alongside it. For drivers, it highlights that cyclists will be using a designated area.

As a driver, what should I be aware of when I see the G11 sign?

When you see the G11 sign, you know that cyclists are required to use the cycle path. This means you should not expect cyclists on the main carriageway, and you should anticipate them using the dedicated path, especially near junctions or when passing.

Can cyclists ever ride on the carriageway if the G11 sign is present?

No, if the G11 sign is displayed, cyclists are prohibited from riding on the adjacent carriageway. They must use the marked cycle path. The only exception might be if local regulations or supplementary signs, particularly concerning 'snorfietsen' (mopeds), indicate otherwise.

Are there any exam traps related to the G11 mandatory cycle path sign?

A common trap is confusing this with a non-mandatory cycle path sign (like G10), or assuming cyclists have a choice. For drivers, it's important to remember that the presence of G11 strictly enforces the use of the cycle path for cyclists, impacting where you expect to see them.

What about 'snorfietsen' (mopeds) and the G11 sign?

The rules for 'snorfietsen' can vary. While the G11 sign mandates cycle path use for standard bicycles, 'snorfietsen' may have different rules depending on local policy and any supplementary plates attached to the sign. Always check for additional signage.

G11 - Start of Mandatory Cycle Path road sign image

A clear reference image of the G11 - Start of Mandatory Cycle Path road sign used in the Netherlands.

G11 - Start of Mandatory Cycle Path road sign

Other names for the G11 - Start of Mandatory Cycle Path

The G11 - Start of Mandatory Cycle Path road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

Compulsory cycle pathCycle lane/path (mandatory)Bicycle path requiredDedicated bike facility

Area, Road & Path Designations (G) road sign category

The G11 - Start of Mandatory Cycle Path road sign is part of the Area, Road & Path Designations (G) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.