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Dutch Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

D7 Mandatory Directions: You Must Turn Left or Right

D7 - Mandatory Directions — Left and Right Dutch road sign meaning

The D7 Mandatory Directions sign tells you that you cannot proceed straight ahead. You are required to turn either left or right at this point. This sign is typically encountered at the end of a street or a road closure, where continuing forward is impossible. Pay close attention to this sign, as failing to obey it can lead to confusion or an unsafe situation during your driving test and in real traffic.

About the D7 - Mandatory Directions — Left and Right road sign

Learn the key details of the D7 - Mandatory Directions — Left and Right 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 D7

The mandatory left or right sign is a blue circular sign with white arrows indicating that traffic is only allowed to turn left or right. It enforces a compulsory change of direction and explicitly rules out continuing straight on or making a U turn at that point. You will often see it at T junctions, dead end streets, roadworks, or closures where through traffic is no longer possible.

Meaning of D7

This sign tells drivers that they may not continue straight ahead and must choose either a left or right turn at the junction. It is usually placed where the road ends or where straight ahead would lead into a restricted or unsafe area. Drivers must prepare in advance, select the correct lane, and complete a clear and safe turn in one of the permitted directions.

Allowed actions for D7

Driving straight ahead past the signMaking a U turn at or directly after the junctionIgnoring the indicated turning directions and proceeding into a closed roadChanging direction at the last moment in a way that endangers other trafficBlocking the junction while hesitating between left and right

Prohibited actions for D7

Turn left at the junction when it is safe to do soTurn right at the junction when it is safe to do soChoose an appropriate lane for the intended direction in advanceReduce speed in good time before entering the junctionIndicate clearly and in good time before turningFollow any additional lane markings or arrows on the road surface

D7 - Mandatory Directions — Left and Right road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the D7 - Mandatory Directions — Left and Right 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 D7 Mandatory Directions sign mean?

The D7 sign means you must turn either left or right. It indicates that going straight ahead is strictly prohibited at this location, often because the road ahead is blocked or ends.

What actions are prohibited when I see the D7 sign?

When you see the D7 Mandatory Directions sign, you are prohibited from driving straight ahead. U-turns are also generally not permitted under this sign unless specifically indicated otherwise.

What should I do if I see the D7 sign?

If you see the D7 sign, you must choose to turn left or right. Follow the direction indicated by the arrows on the sign, ensuring you make the turn safely.

Is the D7 sign a warning or a prohibition?

The D7 sign is considered an 'obligatory direction' or 'mandatory direction' sign. It mandates a specific action (turning left or right) and prohibits another (going straight), making it a type of mandatory instruction rather than a pure prohibition or warning.

Will I see the D7 sign on a T-junction?

Yes, the D7 sign is commonly found at T-junctions or dead ends where continuing straight is not an option. It guides drivers to take one of the available turning routes.

D7 - Mandatory Directions — Left and Right road sign image

A clear reference image of the D7 - Mandatory Directions — Left and Right road sign used in the Netherlands.

D7 - Mandatory Directions — Left and Right road sign

Other names for the D7 - Mandatory Directions — Left and Right

The D7 - Mandatory Directions — Left and Right road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

Turn left or rightNo straight aheadLeft/right only

Mandatory Direction Signs (D) road sign category

The D7 - Mandatory Directions — Left and Right road sign is part of the Mandatory Direction Signs (D) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.