The A1 'Maximum Speed' road sign is a crucial prohibition sign you'll encounter in the Netherlands. It clearly indicates the highest legal speed you are permitted to drive from that point onwards. This circular sign with a red border and a black number remains in effect until you see an 'end of prohibition' sign or a new speed limit is introduced. Always adjust your speed to comply with this limit for safety and to pass your theory exam.
Learn the key details of the A1 - Maximum Speed 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.
A circular white sign with a red border and a black number displays the legal maximum speed that applies from the sign until another limit or an end sign changes it. It is used on all types of roads, including autosnelweg and autoweg, to control speed and improve road safety.
This sign shows the highest legal speed you may drive from this point onward on this road. You must adjust your speed so it never exceeds the number shown, while still slowing down further when traffic, weather, road layout or visibility make the situation more demanding or risky.
Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the A1 - Maximum Speed 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 A1 sign indicates the absolute maximum speed you can legally drive in kilometres per hour. Driving any faster than the number shown on the sign is prohibited and can lead to fines or penalty points. This speed limit applies from the point where the sign is placed until it is cancelled by another sign.
Upon seeing the A1 sign, you must immediately reduce your speed to the indicated limit or below. If you are already travelling at or below the limit, you must maintain that speed. Remember to also consider adverse weather conditions or heavy traffic, and it's often wise to drive even slower than the maximum limit in such situations.
The primary exception is if a matrix board displays a lower speed limit. In that case, the lowest limit shown always applies. Furthermore, the sign sets a maximum; you are allowed to drive slower than the indicated speed, especially if conditions warrant it, such as poor visibility or heavy traffic.
A common trap is thinking the sign indicates the recommended speed. It is a strict legal maximum. Another trap is forgetting that the limit remains in effect until explicitly cancelled by an 'end of prohibition' sign (often circular white with a diagonal black bar) or a new speed limit sign. Always look ahead for subsequent signs.
The maximum speed indicated by the A1 sign remains in force until you encounter a sign that cancels this prohibition. This is typically a circular white sign with a diagonal black bar (E22 or similar, depending on the country's specific signage) or a new speed limit sign that replaces the previous one.
A clear reference image of the A1 - Maximum Speed road sign used in the Netherlands.
The A1 - Maximum Speed road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The A1 - Maximum Speed road sign is part of the Speed Signs (A) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.