Group J warning signs alert drivers to hazards and unusual conditions ahead, helping them anticipate risks early. These triangular signs highlight dangers such as curves, junctions, slippery surfaces, roadworks, and vulnerable road users. Understanding this group improves hazard awareness, encourages safer speed adjustment, and strengthens a driver’s ability to recognise high-risk situations tested in theory exams.
An explanation of how Warning Signs (J) 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.
Warning signs from Group J are frequently encountered on all types of roads in the Netherlands, from rural lanes to urban streets and approaching motorways. You'll see them placed well in advance of the hazard they indicate, giving you crucial time to react. For example, signs for bends (J2, J3, J4, J5) appear before curves, while signs for level crossings (J10, J11) are positioned before railway tracks. You will also encounter signs warning of pedestrian crossings (J22), children playing (J21), or wild animals (J27) in areas where these are common. Road works (J16), carriageway narrowing (J17, J18, J19), and potential traffic jams (J33) are common in construction zones or busy periods. Understanding these signs helps you to slow down, be more vigilant, and take appropriate action to avoid accidents.
An overview of the key learning outcomes when studying the Warning Signs (J) 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 Warning Signs (J) 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.
Prepare for Uneven Roads with the J1 Poor Road Surface Warning Sign
Prepare for a Leftward Bend Ahead with the J3 Warning Sign
Understand the J10 Warning Sign for Level Crossings with Barriers
Prepare for ungated rail crossings with the J11 Level Crossing without Barriers sign.
J12 Single St. Andrew’s Cross: Warning of a Single Railway Track Ahead
Prepare for the J13 Double St. Andrew’s Cross indicating multiple railway tracks ahead.
Prepare for the J14 Tram Crossing sign – a warning of potential hazards ahead.
Prepare for the 'Carriageway Narrows on Both Sides' warning sign (J17) in the Netherlands.
Prepare for the J18 Sign: Carriageway Narrows on the Right
Carriageway Narrows on the Left (J19): Prepare for Restricted Space
Prepare for a sharp bend to the right ahead with the J2 warning sign.
Beware of the J20 Danger of Skidding road sign, warning you of reduced road grip!
Watch out for frequent cyclist and moped traffic ahead!
Watch out for loose chippings on the road with the J25 sign!
Beware of unprotected water's edge with the J26 Quay or River Bank sign.
Watch out for J27: Wild Animals Crossing the Road!
Watch out for farm animals crossing the road with the J28 Livestock sign!
Prepare for 'Oncoming Traffic' (J29) by understanding two-way road rules.
Prepare for low-flying aircraft with the J30 warning sign.
Prepare to stop: The J32 Traffic Lights sign warns of upcoming signal-controlled junctions.
Prepare for Sudden Traffic Jams with the J33 Warning Sign
Prepare for the unexpected with the 'Accident Ahead' warning sign.
Prepare for severely reduced visibility with the J35 warning sign.
J36 Sleet or Snow sign warns of slippery conditions and potential ice on Dutch roads.
Understand the J37 General Danger Sign: Hazard Ahead, Read the Plate!
Beware of wheel ruts with the J37 General Danger sign!
Be aware of construction traffic entering the road with the J37 danger sign.
Understand the J38 Speed Bump sign and how to safely navigate it.
Watch out for the J39 Retractable Bollard – a rising barrier that controls access!
Prepare for a double bend ahead, starting with a turn to the right.
Prepare for a double bend ahead, starting with a left turn, indicated by the J5 sign.
Prepare for steep uphill climbs with the J6 Steep Slope (Ascent) warning sign.
Prepare for the J7 Dangerous Descent sign to stay safe on steep downhill gradients.
J8 Dangerous Intersection: Prepare for a hazardous junction ahead!
Prepare for the upcoming roundabout with the J9 warning sign!
Clear answers to common questions about the Warning Signs (J) 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.
The primary purpose of Dutch warning signs (Group J) is to alert drivers to potential hazards or unusual traffic situations that lie ahead. They are designed to give you advance notice, allowing you to reduce speed, be more aware of your surroundings, and prepare for any necessary maneuvers, thereby enhancing road safety.
The distance varies depending on the type of road and the nature of the hazard. On motorways and main roads, warning signs are typically placed at a greater distance (e.g., 250 meters or more) than in built-up areas where they might be closer (e.g., 50-100 meters). Always be prepared to encounter the hazard shortly after passing the sign, especially if no specific distance is indicated.
When you see a warning sign for a bend, such as a bend to the left (J3) or right (J2), you should reduce your speed before entering the bend. Ensure you are in the correct lane and adjust your steering appropriately for the sharpness of the curve indicated by the sign. Pay attention to any supplementary plates that might indicate the severity or direction of the bend.
A 'Level Crossing with Barriers' (J10) sign warns you of a railway crossing that is equipped with gates or barriers to stop traffic when a train is approaching. A 'Level Crossing without Barriers' (J11) indicates a crossing that has no barriers, often marked only by St. Andrew's Crosses (J12, J13). For crossings without barriers, you must be extra cautious, stop if necessary, and ensure the track is clear before proceeding.
Yes, warning signs are often combined with supplementary plates or other traffic signs. For example, a warning sign might be accompanied by a speed limit sign (Group A) indicating a recommended speed for the hazard ahead, or a plate showing the distance to the hazard. Always read all associated signs to understand the full situation.
