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Dutch Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

The A4 Recommended Speed sign advises a safe speed for current road conditions.

A4 - Recommended Speed Dutch road sign meaning

This blue rectangular sign, code A4, displays a recommended speed for the road ahead, such as before curves or merge points. It's not a legal limit but a suggestion for safe and comfortable travel based on local conditions. Always aim to drive near the advised speed when conditions permit, but remember to reduce your speed further if necessary for your safety.

About the A4 - Recommended Speed road sign

Learn the key details of the A4 - Recommended 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.

Definition of A4

A rectangular blue sign with a white number advises a recommended speed for the road ahead. It is often placed before bends, exits or complex layouts where many drivers benefit from slowing to a similar speed. The value is advisory, so you may drive slower or slightly faster, provided you always stay within legal limits and conditions.

Meaning of A4

This sign recommends a safe and comfortable speed for the upcoming road section, based on typical conditions such as curves, gradients or merging traffic. It is not a strict legal limit, but it guides you to choose a speed that improves safety, comfort and traffic flow.

Allowed actions for A4

Use the recommended speed as guidance for a safe and comfortable approachDrive at or slightly below the recommended speed when conditions are normalSlow down further in rain, fog, heavy traffic or poor visibilityMaintain a steady speed through bends or complex layouts near the recommendationDrive a little below the recommendation if you feel uncertain about the situationSlightly exceed the recommended speed only when conditions and legal limits clearly allow it

Prohibited actions for A4

Treating the recommended speed as a minimum and driving much faster in tight bendsIgnoring the advisory completely in poor conditions and keeping very high speedTailgating vehicles that choose to follow the recommended speedAccelerating aggressively just before curves or merges despite the advisoryUsing the advisory sign as an excuse to drive faster than legal limits elsewhere on the road

A4 - Recommended Speed road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the A4 - Recommended 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.

What does the A4 Recommended Speed sign mean?

The A4 Recommended Speed sign (or advisory speed sign) is a blue rectangular sign with a white number. It advises drivers on a safe speed to travel, typically before hazards like sharp bends or complex junctions. It's a recommendation, not a legal maximum speed.

Do I have to drive at the speed shown on the A4 sign?

No, the A4 sign indicates a recommended speed, not a mandatory one. While it's wise to consider the advice for safe driving, you are not legally obligated to match that exact speed. You should always adjust your speed based on actual traffic, weather, and road conditions, potentially driving slower than recommended if needed.

When might I see the A4 Recommended Speed sign?

You'll often find the A4 sign placed before sections of road where a lower speed is advisable for safety. This could be before sharp curves, merging traffic lanes, or areas with complex road layouts. It may also be placed after other warning signs to provide a specific speed suggestion for the hazard ahead.

What is the difference between the A4 recommended speed sign and a speed limit sign?

A speed limit sign, usually red and white, indicates the maximum legal speed you can drive in that zone. Exceeding it results in a fine. The A4 Recommended Speed sign (blue and white) is advisory; it suggests a speed for safety and comfort but is not a legal limit. You must still obey actual speed limits and drive according to conditions.

Is the A4 Recommended Speed sign important for the Dutch theory exam?

Yes, understanding the difference between recommended and mandatory speed limits is crucial for your Dutch theory exam. Examiners want to see that you can interpret advisory signs and adjust your driving behaviour appropriately for safety, rather than just looking for legal limits.

A4 - Recommended Speed road sign image

A clear reference image of the A4 - Recommended Speed road sign used in the Netherlands.

A4 - Recommended Speed road sign

Other names for the A4 - Recommended Speed

The A4 - Recommended Speed road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

Advisory speedSuggested speedRecommended velocity

Speed Signs (A) road sign category

The A4 - Recommended Speed road sign is part of the Speed Signs (A) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.