A2 KNM: Cycling & Traffic Rules
The Netherlands is the world's cycling capital. There are more bikes than people! Cycling infrastructure is excellent with dedicated bike lanes (fietspade...
Reviewed against official sources - Updated 2026-05-10
The Netherlands is the world's cycling capital. There are more bikes than people! Cycling infrastructure is excellent with dedicated bike lanes (fietspaden). Cyclists have specific rules: use lights at night, signal turns, and give way to pedestrians. Bike theft is common, so always lock your bike.
| Rule | Dutch | Important Note |
|---|---|---|
| Use bike lights | Verlichting verplicht | Fine if not, front + back |
| Stay on bike paths | Fietspad gebruiken | When available, mandatory |
| No phone while cycling | Bellen op de fiets verboden | Can get a fine |
| Signal with hand | Richting aangeven | Before turning |
| Lock your bike | Fiets op slot | Two locks recommended |
| Give way to right | Rechts heeft voorrang | At equal intersections |
Examples
- Heb je licht op je fiets?
- Do you have lights on your bike?
- Mijn fiets is gestolen.
- My bike was stolen.
- Je mag niet bellen op de fiets.
- You're not allowed to phone while cycling.
- Doe je helm op.
- Put on your helmet.
Study note
Get a second-hand bike rather than new - they're cheaper and less attractive to thieves. Always use two locks (a chain lock and frame lock). Register your bike with the police. Learn the hand signals: left arm out = turning left, right arm out = turning right, arm raised = stopping.
Practice after reading
Train A2 knowledge of Dutch society with timed KNM practice questions.
