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Dutch Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

Prepare for 'Oncoming Traffic' (J29) by understanding two-way road rules.

J29 - Oncoming Traffic Dutch road sign meaning

The J29 sign warns of oncoming traffic, typically seen after divided highways or one-way systems end. This means traffic will soon flow in both directions, increasing the risk of head-on collisions, especially during overtaking. Always adapt your speed and lane position to these two-way conditions, keeping to the right and using dipped headlights when meeting other vehicles. Understanding this sign is crucial for safe driving and passing your Dutch theory exam.

About the J29 - Oncoming Traffic road sign

Learn the key details of the J29 - Oncoming Traffic 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 J29

This warning sign, often showing opposing arrows, indicates the start of a section where traffic again moves in both directions after a divided or one-way route. It enforces renewed attention to oncoming vehicles, careful positioning to the right, and conservative overtaking decisions. The sign is typically used where a dual carriageway narrows, roadworks remove separation, or a formerly one-way street returns to two-way operation.

Meaning of J29

This sign indicates that traffic will again be moving in both directions ahead after a period of one-way or divided carriageway. Drivers must adapt their speed, lane position, and overtaking behavior to the increased risk of head-on collisions, and carefully watch for oncoming vehicles that may appear suddenly when visibility is limited.

Allowed actions for J29

Return to the correct side of the road before the two-way sectionAdjust speed to allow safe interaction with oncoming trafficKeep a lane position that maximises clearance from opposing vehiclesOvertake only when visibility and distance are clearly sufficientUse dipped headlights when meeting oncoming traffic in low light

Prohibited actions for J29

Continuing to drive on the former overtaking or opposing laneStarting an overtake without clear long-distance visibilityCutting blind bends where oncoming traffic may appearPositioning close to the centre line at high speedIgnoring road markings that separate opposing traffic

J29 - Oncoming Traffic road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the J29 - Oncoming Traffic 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 J29 'Oncoming Traffic' sign mean?

The J29 sign, also known as 'Oncoming Traffic' or 'Two-way traffic', indicates that you will soon encounter vehicles travelling in the opposite direction. This is common after stretches of road that were previously one-way or divided.

How should I react when I see the J29 sign?

Upon seeing the J29 sign, you must anticipate opposing traffic. This means you should adjust your driving behaviour: keep to the right side of the road, be extra cautious when overtaking, and be prepared to use your dipped headlights, especially in poor visibility or at night.

Why is the J29 sign important for the Dutch theory exam?

This sign is important because it signals a potential hazard – the risk of head-on collisions. For the theory exam, you need to demonstrate that you understand the implications of two-way traffic and know how to adjust your speed and lane position accordingly, particularly when overtaking.

Are there any specific actions prohibited by the J29 sign?

While the J29 sign itself doesn't explicitly prohibit actions, it strongly implies that you should avoid behaviours that are risky in two-way traffic. This includes overtaking when there isn't clear sight of oncoming traffic and cutting blind corners where you might meet an opposing vehicle unexpectedly.

When would I typically see the J29 'Oncoming Traffic' sign?

You'll usually encounter the J29 sign after a period where traffic was separated, such as at the end of a central reservation on a dual carriageway, or when exiting a one-way street that transitions back to two-way traffic. It serves as a heads-up to the change in road conditions.

J29 - Oncoming Traffic road sign image

A clear reference image of the J29 - Oncoming Traffic road sign used in the Netherlands.

J29 - Oncoming Traffic road sign

Other names for the J29 - Oncoming Traffic

The J29 - Oncoming Traffic road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

Two-way trafficOpposing flows

Warning Signs (J) road sign category

The J29 - Oncoming Traffic road sign is part of the Warning Signs (J) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.

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