Wrong-way drivingNetherlands

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Netherlands. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.

Traffic signs

Traffic rules

Netherlands

1. Wrong-way driving

Wrong-way driving occurs when a driver travels against the legally permitted direction of traffic. It may happen on a one-way road, divided road, motorway entrance or exit, or another road section reserved for traffic travelling in one direction.

Wrong-way driving creates an extreme risk of a head-on collision. Drivers must follow direction signs, no-entry signs, lane arrows and road markings. Anyone who accidentally enters a road in the wrong direction should slow down, warn other traffic, stop in the safest available place and contact the emergency services.

How can you avoid driving the wrong way in the Netherlands?

Traffic normally keeps right here. Keep to the correct side of the road and use no-entry and one-way signs to identify prohibited approaches; do not enter an exit ramp against its permitted direction.

🔗 government.nl • Dutch Government, road rules and signs — RVV articles 3, 43, 62; Annex 1 C2–C5

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • RVV 1990 — official Dutch legislative reference

What signs can prevent wrong-way driving in the Netherlands?

Read no-entry signs, one-way signs, lane arrows and temporary directions together; a wide road is not automatically two-way. Before entering a motorway, expressway, one-way street or slip road, check the permitted direction rather than relying only on a navigation app.

🔗 government.nl • Dutch Government, road rules and signs — RVV articles 3, 43, 62; Annex 1 C2–C5

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • RVV 1990 — official Dutch legislative reference

What should you do if you enter a road against traffic in the Netherlands?

Do not continue along the wrong-way lane or try to reverse or make a U-turn across a high-speed road. Reduce speed, warn other traffic if safe, get to a protected stopping place away from moving traffic when possible and contact the police or road operator for assistance.

🔗 government.nl • Dutch Government, road rules and signs — RVV articles 3, 43, 62; Annex 1 C2–C5

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • RVV 1990 — official Dutch legislative reference