Priority over oncoming traffic
Official name: Drivers from the opposite direction must give way to traffic approaching from this direction
Other mandatory and prohibitory signs
Written by Chris Prosman Reviewed by Dirk van Zuijlen
Updated
- Sign code
- F6
- Category
- Other mandatory and prohibitory signs
- Traffic signs
- Oncoming traffic must give way to traffic from this direction.
F6 requires drivers approaching from the opposite direction to let traffic from your direction pass first. It is a blue rectangular sign with two arrows. Used at a narrow passage, it does not authorise entering when the passage is already occupied.
What to do at this sign
Before the narrowing, check that the other driver can and will wait. If that driver is already in the narrow section, wait for space. Passing safely takes precedence over forcing priority; remain calm and watch for pedestrians or cyclists within the narrowing.
Example on the road
F6 stands on your side of a narrow bridge. The opposing driver has F5 and should let you pass. If the bridge is clear and the other driver waits, proceed. If a vehicle is stuck, wait for the passage to clear.
Other conditions to check
F6 concerns opposing directions at this passage. It says nothing about an ordinary side road further ahead and does not create a priority road. Reassess the signs at the next junction independently.
How to recognise the sign
Read the image, arrows and any text on sign F6; they distinguish this version within the other mandatory and prohibitory signs category.
Difference from F5 — Give way to oncoming traffic
F6 is blue and rectangular and requires opposing drivers to wait. The circular F5 requires you to wait when traffic approaches.
F5 — Give way to oncoming trafficLegal basis
Frequently asked questions
- Can I always proceed at F6?
- No. You must still be able to pass safely and cannot force an occupied passage.
- Am I on a priority road after F6?
- No. The sign arranges passage relative to oncoming traffic at this location.
Explained in the course
Practise this sign for your theory exam
Priority over oncoming traffic belongs to the Other mandatory and prohibitory signs category. In the CBR theory exam a traffic sign is almost never asked on its own: you are shown a situation and have to know what you may or must do in it. In the free sign trainer you practise the signs by category, with the explanation shown right after every answer.
Practise traffic signs for free Practise car theory: free mock exam
