Theory Mastery

Sign A3: The maximum speed shown on the electronic signalling board applies

A3 – The maximum speed shown on the electronic signalling board applies

Series: A -- Speed

Legal meaning

Maximum speed on an electronic signalling board.

Source: RVV 1990 annex 1 · checked 2026-10-23

Shape and colour

Black rectangular signalling board with the number in a red ring: an electronic speed limit that can change per situation.

Where the sign stands

Above or beside the carriageway on a signalling gantry; it applies to the lane or stretch below it until the next gantry.

What the exam asks about this sign

The exam tests the ranking: a number on a matrix sign beats a fixed A1 sign while the gantry shows it, even if the fixed sign allows more. A red cross above a lane means the lane is closed, a green arrow that it is open. In a question always choose the lowest limit shown for your lane.

Trap

Treating A3 like a fixed limit, same as A1.

A1 is a fixed maximum speed; A3 is electronic and its value can change.

Exam question on this sign

About Speed signs A: maximum, matrix sign, advisory and zone: which statement is WRONG?

  1. Traffic signs may be displayed on an electronic signalling sign; when a fixed sign and a matrix sign both show a speed at once, the lowest one applies.
  2. A3 = maximum speed on an electronic signalling sign (matrix sign); A4 = advisory speed (blue rectangular sign).
  3. The LOWEST indicated maximum speed applies, not the more permanent one.
  4. A 30-zone sign only applies to the street it stands on; every side street needs its own zone sign again.
Show the answer

Correct answer: A 30-zone sign only applies to the street it stands on; every side street needs its own zone sign again.

A sign with 'zone' above it applies to the ENTIRE indicated area, until the end-of-zone sign — not only to the street the sign stands on

Why learners get this wrong: A matrix sign above the lane is only an indication; the fixed round signs along the road are the only real, binding traffic signs.

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Often confused with

Signs in the same series

Nearby signs

Where this is explained

Topics that use this sign

Questions using this

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