The F3 sign, indicating 'No Overtaking — Lorries', is a prohibition sign specifically targeting heavy goods vehicles. It means that lorries are not allowed to overtake other motor vehicles. This sign is often found on busy Dutch roads or in areas where visibility is poor, aiming to improve traffic flow and safety by preventing long, slow overtakes. While lorries must refrain from overtaking, other vehicles like cars may still overtake if no other restrictions apply.
Learn the key details of the F3 - No Overtaking — Lorries 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.
The no overtaking by lorries sign applies to heavy goods vehicles above the legal weight threshold and bans them from passing other motor vehicles. It is often placed on multi-lane roads, gradients, or busy routes where truck overtakes can block lanes or reduce visibility. Cars, vans, and motorcycles may overtake if this is not restricted by road markings, speed limits, or separate prohibitions.
This sign prohibits lorries from overtaking other motor vehicles on the affected road section. It is intended to prevent long, slow overtaking maneuvers that disturb traffic flow or create unsafe situations. Drivers of lorries must remain in their lane and maintain safe following distances, while lighter vehicles may still overtake if allowed by other rules.
Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the F3 - No Overtaking — Lorries 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.
The F3 sign specifically prohibits lorries from overtaking any other motor vehicle. This restriction applies only to lorries; other vehicles, such as cars, are permitted to overtake if there are no other signs or rules preventing it.
This sign is used to enhance safety and maintain traffic flow. Lorries are large and their overtakes can be slow and prolonged, potentially causing obstruction or dangerous situations, especially on busy roads or where visibility is limited. The F3 sign prevents these lengthy manoeuvres.
Yes, the F3 sign's prohibition applies only to lorries overtaking other vehicles. Cars and other smaller motor vehicles are allowed to overtake lorries or other vehicles, provided there is no other sign or road marking prohibiting it, and it is safe to do so.
A common misunderstanding is assuming the sign prohibits all overtaking. Learners might incorrectly think no vehicle can overtake. It's crucial to remember the F3 sign specifically targets lorries and their ability to overtake. Always check for other signs that might restrict overtaking for all vehicles.
Yes, the F3 sign implies that lorries should not drive side-by-side to attempt an overtake. The primary purpose is to prevent lorries from initiating an overtaking manoeuvre on any other motor vehicle, thus maintaining a single lane of traffic for them in that respect.
A clear reference image of the F3 - No Overtaking — Lorries road sign used in the Netherlands.

The F3 - No Overtaking — Lorries road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The F3 - No Overtaking — Lorries road sign is part of the Overtaking & Lane Directives (F) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.