G-series signs indicate the type of road or area a driver is entering or exiting, such as motorways, expressways, living streets, or dedicated cycling zones. These signs define expected behaviour, speed environments, and which road users may be present. Understanding this group helps drivers choose correct routes, anticipate upcoming conditions, and answer theory-exam questions involving different road categories.
An explanation of how Area, Road & Path Designations (G) road signs apply in real traffic situations in the Netherlands. Learn where these signs are typically placed, what drivers are expected to do when they appear, and how correct reactions help you stay safe, avoid fines, and succeed in your Dutch driving theory exam.
You'll encounter G-series signs frequently as they define fundamental aspects of road usage. Signs like 'Start of Motorway' (G1) or 'End of Motorway' (G2) mark the transition onto or off high-speed roads where specific driving rules apply. Similarly, 'Start of Autoweg' (G3) and 'End of Autoweg' (G4) indicate express roads with different speed and overtaking regulations than standard roads. In urban environments, 'Start of 'Erf' (Living Street)' (G5) and 'End of 'Erf'' (G6) signs alert you to areas where pedestrians have priority and vehicle speed must be very low. Signs related to cycle paths (G11-G14) and footpaths (G7-G8) clarify which facilities are intended for specific users, helping to prevent conflicts between cyclists, pedestrians, and motor vehicles. Recognizing these designations helps you immediately adjust your speed, anticipate the behaviour of other road users, and select the appropriate lane or route.
An overview of the key learning outcomes when studying the Area, Road & Path Designations (G) road sign category. Understand the main concepts, sign meanings, and traffic situations covered here so you can recognise patterns, answer theory questions more confidently, and build a solid foundation for safe driving in the Netherlands.
Browse every road sign in the Area, Road & Path Designations (G) category. Each sign includes a clear meaning, purpose, and examples of how it is used in the Netherlands, helping you build strong recognition skills and a detailed understanding of this group of Dutch traffic signs.
The G1 sign marks the beginning of a motorway where special rules apply.
The G10 'End of Bridle Path' sign means the route is no longer exclusively for horse riders.
You must use this cycle path: G11 Mandatory Cycle Path sign ahead.
The G12 sign signals the end of your mandatory cycle path obligation.
The G12a sign means you must use the mandatory cycle and moped path.
You're no longer required to use the combined cycle/moped path after this sign.
The G13 sign means the cycle path is optional, giving you a choice.
The G14 sign marks the end of an optional cycle path.
G2: Motorway Ends Here – Prepare for General Road Rules!
G3: Welcome to the Autoweg Express Road!
The 'End of Autoweg' sign (G4) means you're leaving the express road.
Approaching a 'Living Street' – Slow Down and Share the Road!
The G6 sign marks the end of your Living Street (Erf) and the return to normal traffic rules.
G7: Start of a dedicated footpath for pedestrians and mobility aids.
G8 Sign: The Footpath Ends Here, Normal Access Rules Apply
Understand the G9 'Start of Bridle Path' Sign and What It Means for Other Traffic
Clear answers to common questions about the Area, Road & Path Designations (G) road sign category. Use this FAQ to review tricky rules, understand how these signs appear in exam scenarios, and remove confusion that often leads to mistakes in the Dutch driving theory exam in the Netherlands.
While both are high-speed roads, a Motorway typically has more stringent rules, often prohibiting certain slow-moving vehicles and pedestrians entirely. An Autoweg, or express road, is similar but might have slightly different regulations depending on local law. Both require higher speeds and specific lane discipline compared to regular roads. Look for the G1/G2 signs for motorways and G3/G4 for autowegs.
When you see a 'Start of 'Erf'' (G5) sign, you are entering a shared space where pedestrians have priority. Cars are allowed but must drive at walking pace and be prepared to stop for anyone. The street is primarily for residents and play, so your behaviour must be extra cautious and considerate. The 'End of 'Erf'' (G6) sign signals that normal road rules apply again.
Mandatory cycle paths are indicated by signs like 'Start of Mandatory Cycle Path' (G11) or 'Start of Mandatory Cycle/Moped Path' (G12a). This means cyclists must use the designated path. If you see 'Start of Non-mandatory Cycle Path' (G13), cyclists may use the path but can also choose to ride on the main carriageway. As a car driver, understanding this distinction is vital for anticipating where cyclists should be.
No, the G-series signs are crucial for both the start and the end of these designated areas or roads. For example, you'll see 'Start of Motorway' (G1) to enter motorway conditions and 'End of Motorway' (G2) to signify leaving them. Knowing both the start and end signs helps you understand when specific rules begin and when they cease to apply, allowing for a smooth transition in your driving behaviour.
The 'End of' signs are just as critical because they inform you when the special rules or restrictions associated with a particular area or road type are no longer in effect. For instance, exiting a Living Street (G6) means you can resume normal road speeds and priorities, and leaving a motorway (G2) or autoweg (G4) requires you to be aware of different traffic conditions. Failing to recognise an 'End of' sign can lead to driving too slowly or inappropriately for the new road conditions.