Overtaking in the Netherlands: left, right and when it is forbidden
In the Netherlands you overtake on the left. You may overtake on the right a driver who has moved left and signalled a left turn, a tram, queuing traffic, traffic left of a block marking, and on or just before a roundabout. Overtaking is forbidden just before or on a zebra crossing, across a solid line and where sign F1 says so. Indicate when you overtake a motor vehicle.
The rule: overtake on the left
Overtaking happens on the left (article 11). You indicate when you overtake another motor vehicle (article 55), and you only overtake when you can do so safely, without making anyone brake or swerve.
When you may pass on the right
| Situation | Rule |
|---|---|
| A driver has moved to the left and signalled a left turn | Overtake on the right (article 11) |
| A tram | You may overtake it on the right (article 11) |
| Queuing traffic on a road with several lanes | You may pass a queue on the right (article 13) |
| You are to the right of a block marking | You may pass drivers to the left of it on the right (article 11) |
| On or just before a roundabout | Overtaking on the right is allowed (article 48) |
Cyclists overtake each other on the left, but they may overtake other vehicles on the right (article 11). Expect them there, especially when you turn right.
When overtaking is forbidden
- Just before or on a pedestrian crossing (article 12).
- When it means crossing a solid line, or being to the left of a solid line between lanes with traffic in both directions (article 76).
- Where sign F1 forbids motor vehicles to overtake each other, until sign F2. Sign F3 forbids lorries to overtake motor vehicles.
The exam trap: overtaking a car that has stopped just before a zebra crossing. It may have stopped for a pedestrian you cannot see. Overtaking there is forbidden.
Lanes and keeping right on the motorway: motorway rules. Lines on the road: road markings in the Netherlands.
Frequently asked questions
On which side do you overtake in the Netherlands?
On the left. You may overtake on the right a driver who has moved to the left and signalled a left turn, a tram, traffic in a queue, and on or just before a roundabout.
Can cyclists overtake me on the right?
Yes. Cyclists overtake each other on the left, but may overtake other vehicles on the right.
Where is overtaking forbidden?
Just before or on a pedestrian crossing, where you would have to cross a solid line, and where sign F1 forbids motor vehicles to overtake each other. Sign F3 forbids lorries to overtake motor vehicles.
Do I have to indicate when I overtake?
Yes, when you overtake another motor vehicle, and when you change lanes.
Sources, checked on 3 November 2026:
Written by Nawfal Serraji, traffic law specialist and founder of HaalTheorie.