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Dutch Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

The B1 Priority Road sign means you have the right of way.

B1 - Priority Road Dutch road sign meaning

The B1 sign, a yellow diamond with a white border, indicates that you are on a priority road and have right of way at upcoming intersections. This applies until you see an 'End of Priority Road' sign (B2) or another sign changes the priority rules. These signs are commonly used outside built-up areas to maintain a smooth flow of traffic on main routes, ensuring you can proceed with caution while expecting others to yield.

About the B1 - Priority Road road sign

Learn the key details of the B1 - Priority Road 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 B1

A yellow diamond with a white border marks a priority road on which vehicles have priority over traffic from intersecting roads, unless other signs or markings indicate otherwise. The rule continues until an End of Priority Road sign or a new priority arrangement appears. It is commonly used on through roads to maintain a steady, predictable traffic flow.

Meaning of B1

This sign tells you that the road you are on is a priority road where your traffic generally has right of way at upcoming intersections. Other roads that join or cross this road must usually yield, although you must still adapt your speed and watch carefully for vulnerable road users.

Allowed actions for B1

Continue along the road knowing cross traffic must normally yield to youMaintain a steady but safe speed when passing minor intersectionsOvertake only where markings and conditions permit, even on a priority roadReduce speed near pedestrian crossings, cyclists and other vulnerable usersPrepare in advance for an upcoming End of Priority Road or yield signsUse your priority to keep traffic flowing while staying predictable and cautious

Prohibited actions for B1

Assuming you still have priority after an End of Priority Road sign or new markingsEntering intersections at excessive speed simply because you have priorityIgnoring vehicles that clearly fail to yield and forcing a collision riskFailing to yield to pedestrians on zebra crossings or to emergency vehiclesBlocking an intersection even though you have priority and cannot clear it

B1 - Priority Road road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the B1 - Priority Road 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 B1 Priority Road sign tell me?

The B1 sign confirms that you are on a priority road and therefore have the right of way at all subsequent intersections until this priority is cancelled. You should expect traffic from side roads to yield to you.

How long does the priority from the B1 sign last?

The priority granted by the B1 sign continues until you encounter a sign that cancels it, most commonly the 'End of Priority Road' sign (B2). It can also be superseded by other signs indicating a different priority rule, such as a give way or stop sign.

What should I do if I see a B1 sign?

When you see a B1 sign, you generally have the right of way. However, you must still approach intersections with caution, be aware of other road users, and be prepared to react if necessary, even though you are on the priority route.

Are there any common mistakes learners make with the B1 sign?

A common mistake is assuming priority is absolute and not checking intersections, especially if there's no immediate traffic visible. Learners might also forget that the priority ends when a B2 sign appears or another priority rule is introduced. Always be observant.

Can I still be expected to yield even if I'm on a priority road (B1)?

Yes, although the B1 sign grants you priority, you must always drive defensively. If another road user enters the intersection without yielding, or in an emergency situation, you must still take appropriate action to avoid a collision. Priority does not mean you can ignore other traffic.

Where are B1 Priority Road signs usually placed?

B1 signs are typically used on major through roads, often outside of built-up areas, to facilitate a continuous flow of traffic. They ensure that the main route is less interrupted by traffic joining from minor roads.

B1 - Priority Road road sign image

A clear reference image of the B1 - Priority Road road sign used in the Netherlands.

B1 - Priority Road road sign

Other names for the B1 - Priority Road

The B1 - Priority Road road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

Main roadPriority routeRight-of-way road

Priority Signs (B) road sign category

The B1 - Priority Road road sign is part of the Priority Signs (B) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.