Driving Theory
Dutch Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

G2: Motorway Ends Here – Prepare for General Road Rules!

G2 - End of Motorway Dutch road sign meaning

The G2 sign signals the end of the motorway and its special traffic regulations. Beyond this point, general traffic rules and posted speed limits apply again, meaning you might encounter lower speeds, intersections, cyclists, or pedestrians. It's crucial to adjust your driving behaviour, reduce your speed, and increase your awareness of surroundings as the motorway environment changes abruptly. This sign is vital for safe transitions and passing your Dutch driving licence theory exam.

Understanding the G2: Motorway End Sign

This crucial G2 sign signals the end of the motorway, requiring immediate adaptation to different speed limits and potential hazards like junctions and varied traffic. Prepare for a shift in road rules and traffic complexity as part of your theory test revision.

Definition of G2

The G2 sign marks the exact point where a motorway section ends and the road changes to a different category, such as an autoweg or ordinary main road. The former motorway speed limit no longer applies, and additional access points, junctions, and vulnerable road users may appear. Drivers must carefully observe new signs, road markings, and priority rules to remain compliant and safe.

Meaning of G2

This sign indicates the end of an autosnelweg, meaning special motorway rules no longer apply. From here, you must follow the new posted speed limits, expect intersections, and anticipate more mixed traffic such as slow vehicles or cyclists nearby. Adapt your speed, following distance, and observation to a more complex road environment.

Allowed actions for G2

Reduce speed smoothly to match the new posted limitIncrease attention for intersections, crossings, and local access pointsChoose an appropriate following distance for the changed traffic environmentObserve new signs and markings that define the next road category

Prohibited actions for G2

Continuing to drive at motorway speeds when lower limits applyTreating the road as access controlled when new junctions or driveways appearIgnoring new priority signs or traffic lights after the motorway endsUsing emergency stopping places or hard shoulders without real necessity

G2 - End of Motorway road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the G2 - End of Motorway 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 is the main purpose of the G2 'End of Motorway' sign?

The G2 sign indicates that the special rules and conditions for motorways are no longer in effect. Drivers must transition to general road rules, which often includes a lower speed limit and the possibility of different traffic, like cyclists or pedestrians.

What should I do when I see the G2 'End of Motorway' sign?

Upon seeing the G2 sign, you must prepare to reduce your speed to comply with the new, typically lower, speed limit. You should also increase your scanning of the road ahead and to the sides for potential hazards like intersections, merging traffic, or vulnerable road users.

Are there specific speed limits to watch for after the G2 sign?

Yes, after the G2 sign, general speed limits apply. These are often lower than motorway limits. Always look for any accompanying speed limit signs (repeaters) immediately after the G2 sign, as the speed limit can change abruptly.

What are common mistakes learners make with the G2 sign during the theory exam?

A common trap is assuming the higher motorway speed limit continues past the G2 sign. Learners might also fail to anticipate sudden changes in road layout or traffic conditions, like encountering slower vehicles or junctions, which become possible again once the motorway regime ends.

G2 - End of Motorway road sign image

A clear reference image of the G2 - End of Motorway road sign used in the Netherlands.

G2 - End of Motorway road sign

Other names for the G2 - End of Motorway

The G2 - End of Motorway road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

End motorwayMotorway endsAutosnelweg endsFreeway ends

Area, Road & Path Designations (G) road sign category

The G2 - End of Motorway road sign is part of the Area, Road & Path Designations (G) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.

Reinforce Your Road Sign Knowledge

Reviewing related road signs side-by-side, like the 'End of Motorway' sign, sharpens recognition and reduces confusion. This traffic sign comparison is essential for theory test revision, helping you confidently navigate Dutch roads.

G1 - Start of Motorway road sign

Start of Motorway

The G1 sign marks the beginning of a motorway where special rules apply.

Area, Road & Path Designations (G)G1
G10 - End of Bridle Path road sign

End of Bridle Path

The G10 'End of Bridle Path' sign means the route is no longer exclusively for horse riders.

Area, Road & Path Designations (G)G10
G11 - Start of Mandatory Cycle Path road sign

Start of Mandatory Cycle Path

You must use this cycle path: G11 Mandatory Cycle Path sign ahead.

Area, Road & Path Designations (G)G11
G12 - End of Mandatory Cycle Path road sign

End of Mandatory Cycle Path

The G12 sign signals the end of your mandatory cycle path obligation.

Area, Road & Path Designations (G)G12
G12a - Start of Mandatory Cycle/Moped Path road sign

Start of Mandatory Cycle/Moped Path

The G12a sign means you must use the mandatory cycle and moped path.

Area, Road & Path Designations (G)G12a
G12b - End of Mandatory Cycle/Moped Path road sign

End of Mandatory Cycle/Moped Path

You're no longer required to use the combined cycle/moped path after this sign.

Area, Road & Path Designations (G)G12b
G13 - Start of Non-mandatory Cycle Path road sign

Start of Non-mandatory Cycle Path

The G13 sign means the cycle path is optional, giving you a choice.

Area, Road & Path Designations (G)G13
G14 - End of Non-mandatory Cycle Path road sign

End of Non-mandatory Cycle Path

The G14 sign marks the end of an optional cycle path.

Area, Road & Path Designations (G)G14
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Does Not Apply to Destination Traffic

The destination traffic exempt plate is mounted under an access restriction sign to allow entry only for drivers who genuinely need to be in the area. It is common in residential streets, low-traffic zones, and environmental areas where through-traffic would cause nuisance or danger. The plate does not permit using the zone as a bypass for congestion or as a general driving route.

Road sign

Only Applies to Vehicles with a Trailer

The trailer plate is fitted under a main traffic sign to target vehicles that are towing, such as cars with caravans, goods trailers, or boat trailers. It is frequently used near narrow streets, sharp bends, campsites, and town centers where long combinations are difficult to maneuver or cause inconvenience. The plate does not apply to solo cars or lorries unless this is clearly stated elsewhere.

Ready to Master Dutch Road Signs? Explore More Study Options

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.

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