The OB-411 'Rule Applies Over the Next … m' road sign, often seen on Dutch roads, clarifies the exact length for which a particular traffic regulation is valid. This supplementary plate is crucial for understanding the scope of restrictions, such as speed limits or parking prohibitions, indicating precisely when the rule will end unless a subsequent sign indicates otherwise. Always adhere to the stated rule only for the specified distance and be aware of how to navigate your driving behaviour accordingly.
Understanding the OB-411 road sign meaning is crucial for Dutch driving licence theory test revision. This supplementary plate defines the exact stretch where a main traffic rule applies, impacting your safe driving decisions.
The over next distance plate is a supplementary panel that defines how long the main sign remains in force along the road ahead. It is frequently used for no stopping zones, speed limits, overtaking bans or road work sections where the rule should apply only for a limited stretch. Drivers must keep track of their position, respect the rule throughout the marked length, and then return to normal rules afterward.
This plate shows that the rule on the main sign is valid only over the next stated distance, for example the next 300 m or next 5 km. Within that stretch you must follow the restriction or obligation exactly as shown. Once you pass the indicated distance, the special rule normally ends and the general traffic rules or the next applicable sign take over.
Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the OB-411 - Rule Applies Over the Next … m 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 OB-411 sign, when placed below another traffic sign, specifies the distance in meters (m) over which that primary sign's rule is applicable. For example, if it's under a speed limit sign, that speed limit applies only for the number of meters indicated.
You must follow the rule indicated by the primary sign (e.g., speed limit, no stopping) only for the distance shown on the OB-411 plate. Once you have travelled that distance, the rule ceases to apply, and you can resume normal driving behaviour, unless another sign extends the restriction.
A common mistake is assuming a rule continues indefinitely or forgetting the stated distance. Learners might also not notice subsequent signs that extend the rule, or they might incorrectly assume the rule ends immediately at the distance without considering the road layout or other potential signs. Always look ahead for signs indicating the end or continuation of a rule.
Yes, the rule can be extended. If the restriction needs to continue beyond the initial distance, you will typically see another OB-411 sign indicating the remaining length, or a sign that clearly states the rule continues. It's important to stay alert for these follow-up signs.
If the main sign indicates a prohibition, like 'no stopping', and the OB-411 sign clarifies it's for the next 300 meters, you must not stop within those 300 meters. If you need to stop for an emergency or a permitted reason before reaching the 300m mark, you must still adhere to that prohibition.
A clear reference image of the OB-411 - Rule Applies Over the Next … m road sign used in the Netherlands.

The OB-411 - Rule Applies Over the Next … m road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The OB-411 - Rule Applies Over the Next … m road sign is part of the Supplementary Plates (OB) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.
Studying similar road signs side-by-side, like this 'Rule Applies Over the Next … m' sign with others, sharpens your recall and reduces confusion. Master traffic sign comparison and improve your sign recognition for effective theory test revision in the Netherlands.

This sign means the rule applies ONLY to horse riders.

The OB-02 sign means the rule applies exclusively to cyclists.

This sign means the rule ahead exclusively applies to moped riders.

This Sign Exclusively Targets Cyclists and Moped Riders

Understand the OB-05 sign: This restriction applies only to agricultural vehicles.

OB-06: This Sign Strictly Applies Only to Motorcyclists

This sign OB-07 means the following rule applies only to motorcycles and passenger cars.

OB-08: This Sign Only Applies to Motor Vehicles with More Than Two Wheels
Improve your recognition of official Dutch traffic signs by exploring related theory modules and complex priority scenario studies. These linked resources bridge the gap between visual identification and applying traffic rules correctly for your CBR exam.
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The end of all prohibitions sign is used after a stretch of road where several restrictive signs have applied, for example a reduced speed limit, an overtaking ban or specific access restrictions. It cancels these prohibitions when they were introduced by ordinary round prohibitory signs beside the road. Drivers must still obey any remaining signs, traffic lights and general traffic law that continue to apply.
D6 is a blue mandatory direction sign that allows two options only: straight ahead or right turn. The two arrows on the sign show the permitted movements, and all other directions, such as left turns or U-turns, are forbidden while the restriction applies. It is typically placed on the approach to intersections with multiple lanes so that traffic can be sorted early and conflicts with opposing or crossing streams are reduced.
After reviewing the full list of Dutch road signs, deepen your understanding by exploring signs organized by category or practicing with targeted questions. This systematic approach ensures you fully grasp every sign's meaning and application, preparing you thoroughly for your CBR driving theory exam.
View All Dutch Road Signs