The C23-02 'Clear the Rush-Hour Lane' sign is an important informational traffic sign used to manage traffic flow during peak hours. It means that the dynamic lane you are currently in is closing and you must vacate it immediately. This often happens when rush-hour traffic subsides or due to an incident, reverting the lane to its normal function, such as a hard shoulder. Pay close attention to this sign and any accompanying lane-control signals to merge safely and efficiently.
This specific road sign (C23-02) indicates the impending closure of a dynamic rush-hour lane, demanding immediate and safe merging action from drivers. Correct road sign meaning and timely sign interpretation are vital for preventing traffic hazards, ensuring compliance with Dutch traffic rules, and successful theory test revision.
The sign with a diagonal red cross or arrow over the rush hour lane indicates that dynamic use of that lane is being withdrawn. It is placed before the point where the lane becomes a hard shoulder or non traffic area again. Drivers are expected to merge out before this point and obey any further lane control or speed signals.
This sign informs you that the rush hour lane or shoulder lane is about to close for normal traffic. You must safely leave the lane in good time and merge into a regular lane, adapting your speed and position to the flow. Early, smooth lane changes prevent last second maneuvers and reduce the risk of collisions in busy conditions.
Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the C23-02 - Clear the Rush-Hour Lane 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 C23-02 sign, also known as 'Clear the Rush-Hour Lane', means you must leave the dynamic lane you are in because it is closing. This typically occurs at the end of peak traffic periods or if the lane's use is no longer required due to changing conditions.
When you see the C23-02 'Clear the Rush-Hour Lane' sign, you are prohibited from remaining in that lane, blocking other vehicles trying to merge back into the main lanes, or overtaking using the closing lane. Your priority is to exit the lane safely and promptly.
Upon seeing the C23-02 sign, you should signal your intention to merge, check your mirrors and blind spot, and safely move into an adjacent lane that is still open. Match your speed to the traffic in the lane you are merging into and follow any directional arrows from lane-control signals.
A common exam trap with signs like C23-02 is underestimating the urgency. Learners might hesitate or fail to check for merging traffic properly, leading to dangerous situations or failing the manoeuvre. Always treat dynamic lane closures as requiring immediate, safe action.
A dynamic lane is a lane whose use can be altered, often to help manage traffic flow during peak hours. The C23-02 'Clear the Rush-Hour Lane' sign specifically signals that such a dynamically used lane is now closing and drivers must exit it.
A clear reference image of the C23-02 - Clear the Rush-Hour Lane road sign used in the Netherlands.

The C23-02 - Clear the Rush-Hour Lane road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The C23-02 - Clear the Rush-Hour Lane road sign is part of the Closure & One-Way Signs (C) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.
Comparing similar road signs like the 'Clear the Rush-Hour Lane' sign with others in its group helps solidify your memory and improves recognition accuracy for your theory test revision. Effective traffic sign comparison is key to understanding Dutch traffic rules and preventing mistakes during your driving licence process.

The C1 sign means 'Closed to All Vehicles', but pedestrians are welcome.

The C10 sign means no entry for motor vehicles towing trailers in the Netherlands.

C11: Motorcycles are Prohibited on This Road

Understand the 'Closed to All Motor Vehicles' (C12) Prohibition Sign

Understand the C13 sign: No Engine-Powered Mopeds or Disability Vehicles Allowed

Understand the C14 sign: Bicycles and non-motorized disability vehicles prohibited.

This C15 sign means no access for bicycles, mopeds, and disability vehicles.

The C16 'Closed to Pedestrians' sign means you must not proceed on foot beyond this point.
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