Road traffic signs
Introduction
Traffic road signs play a crucial role in ensuring road safety, regulating traffic flow, and providing essential information to all road users. These signs are categorized based on their purpose and function, making them easier to understand and follow. The classification of road signs follows international standards established by the Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, ensuring consistency across different countries. However, Germany also has unique road sign features tailored to its specific traffic regulations and infrastructure. Understanding these categories helps drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians navigate the roads efficiently, comply with traffic laws, and minimize the risk of accidents. By recognizing and interpreting road signs correctly, road users can enhance safety, maintain smooth traffic movement, and avoid legal violations.
Types of Traffic Signs
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1. Warning Signs
Warning signs are designed to alert drivers to potential hazards or dangerous road conditions ahead. They are typically triangular in shape, featuring a red border, a white background, and black symbols that indicate specific dangers on the road.
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Danger with pedestrains
This sign warns of potential pedestrain danger. Drivers should reduce speed, stay alert, and be prepared to brake at any moment.
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Double curve - First bend right
Its a double curve, so proceed with caution and reduce your speed. The first curve bends to the right, so stay as far to the right-hand side as possible.
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Double curve - First bend left
Its a double curve, so proceed with caution and reduce your speed. The first curve bends to the left, drive as far as possible on the right side.
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Bumpy/Rough road
Reduce your speed to avoid potential damage to vehicle, such as a broken axle or spring fracture. Additionally, any load being carried could be damaged.
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Danger of skidding
Drive slowly, as there is a risk of skidding when the roadway is wet or dirty. Avoid sudden acceleration, braking or sharp steering.
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Danger/Caution Area Ahead
This sign indicates a zone where extra caution is required, typically between 150m and 250m. It is rarely used alone and is usually accompanied by a supplemental sign specifying a unique hazard not covered by other standard signs.
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Road used for winter sport
Be prepared for the road to be used for winter sports, with packed snow or black ice present on the roadway. Drive carefully.
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Road used by Horse and carriages
Be prepared to brake as the road will be used by Horse and carriages. Drive carefully to avoid danger.
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Unmarked intersection ahead
When you see this sign, reduce your speed, be prepared to brake, and give way to traffic approaching from the right.
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Wild animals crossing for 3km
Drive slowly, watch for animals, dip your headlights, and brake when you see them for 3km. Do not avoid hitting wild animals if it endagers oncoming traffic.
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Loose chippings
Loose chippings reduce traction and increase skid risk. Avoid rapid acceleration, keep a safe distance, and avoid sudden maneuvers.
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Pedestrian crossing
You must be especially attentive, watch out for pedestrains, be ready to brake, and approach the pedestrian crossing at a moderate speed.
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Low-flying aircraft
Expect sudden noise from airplanes, vehicles that may brake abruptly, and potential distractions from other road users. Stay alert to ensure safety while driving in this area.
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Traffic congestion
We must anticipate that vehicles ahead may suddenly brake, potentially causing traffic congestion.
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Road narrows
Reduce your speed before reaching the narrow road and avoid overtaking other vehicles.
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Road narrows in 50 m ahead
The roadway narrows approximately 50 m ahead, reduce your speed and avoid overtaking other vehicles.
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Road narrows on right side
In two-lane one directional traffic, employ the zipper feed-in method. In multi-directional traffic give yield to oncoming traffic.
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Work in progress
Do not drive more than 30 km/h and be prepared for traffic from construction vehicles, men at work and construction materials on the roadway.
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Work in progress 100m ahead
Reduce speed to 30 km/h and be prepared for uneven, dirty roadway as well as workers and constrution equipment on the roadway.
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Steep uphill road
The road inclines upward about 12%, requiring lower gears and increased engine power. Drive cautiously and maintain a steady speed.
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Steep downhill road
The road inclined downards about 10%, reduce speed, use lower gears, avoid overtaking. Brake cautiously continuous braking reducess effectiveness, leading to diminished braking response.
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Steep descent/downhill for 800 m
The road inclined downards 800 min length for about 10%, reduce speed, use lower gears, and brake cautiously to maintain control.
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Road ends at waterway
This road leads to the bank of a waterway. In darkness or poor visibility, water areas may be hard to distinguish from the road. Drive with caution.
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Traffic lights
Follow the traffic signals to ensure road safety. Stop when the light is red and proceed when it is green.
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Moveable bridge
Be prepared for the bridge to open or close. Follow the signal and proceed with caution.
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A Rail Crossing
Approach with caution, reduce speed, and be prepared to stop for passing trains. Always check on both sides while passing the rail crossing.
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Rail crossing on right turn
Be prepared for a level crossing on the next right turn ahead. Reduce speed and watch for trains before crossing.
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Strong Sidewind
Strong crosswinds may push your vehicle sideways. Maintain a strong grip on the steering wheel and adjust speed accordingly.
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Hazard with Huge trees and fallen branches
Be prepared for tree branches lying on the road, sudden braking by vehicles ahead, and vehicles may swerving to the left unexpectedly. Drive carefully.
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Icy conditions & Packed snow
Expect slippery roads due to packed snow and ice. Drive carefully and reduce speed.
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Farm animals on the road
Be prepared for livestock on the road and dirt-covered surfaces.
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Traffic Congestion
Increase alertness and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. In case of a traffic jam, brake carefully and activate hazard lights.
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Rail Crossing 240m ahead
Expect a rail crossing at a distance of 240m, reduce speed and be prepared to stop for passing train.
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Oncoming traffic
Expect oncoming traffic and dazzle from oncoming vehicles headlights at night. Drive carefully
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Danger with Horse riders
This sign warns of a potential danger with horse riders on or near the roadway. Drive with caution.
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Cyclists Crossing Ahead
Be prepared for cyclists crossing the carriageway. Drive cautiously and give way if necessary.
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Falling Stones Hazard
Be aware of stones falling from hills and potentially obstructing the roadway. Vehicles ahead may brake suddenly, so avoid stopping or parking in this area.
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Hard right-hand bend
Be prepared for vehicles ahead to slow down suddenly. Watch for oncoming traffic that may cut the corner.
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Hard left-hand bend
Reduce speed and stay alert, as vehicles ahead may slow down suddenly. Drive as far to the right-hand side as possible and watch for oncoming traffic that might cut the corner.
2. Regulatory Signs
Regulatory traffic signs serve the critical purpose of conveying mandatory instructions, prohibitions, or restrictions that all road users must follow. These signs help maintain order and ensure road safety by defining rules for specific areas and conditions. They are categorized into three main subgroups based on their function and design:
A. Prohibition Signs
These signs restrict or forbid certain actions, such as "No Entry," "No Parking," or speed limits. They are easily recognizable by their circular shape with a red border and a white or blue background, often featuring black or red symbols.
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No Parking zone
Parking is prohibited. You may stop for up to 3 minutes. Loading, unloading, and passenger boarding or alighting are permitted.
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Parking only for disabled with a permit
Parking is allowed only for severely disabled persions with the appropriate numbered parking permit. Anyone can stop to pick up or drop passengers.
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No stopping
The area after this sign, one should not stop and park the vehicle. It is not allowed to stop even for exiting the passengers from the vehicle.
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Start of no-stopping zone
Until this sign one can stop. But after this sign, stopping is prohibited.
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End of no-stopping zone
Stopping is now permitted after this sign, but it was prohibited before it on the same side of the street.
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No stopping zone
Stopping is prohibited both before and after the sign on the designated side of the road.
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No overtaking
You are not allowed to overtake vehicles except motorcycle without sidecar, mopeds and bicycles.
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No Overtaking for 3km
You are not allowed to overtake vehicles for 3km on this road.
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No Overtaking of any vehicle
Overtaking any other vehicle is not permitted on this section of the road.
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U-turn prohibited
A U-turn is not permitted here. Drivers must continue in their current direction.
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No stopping on working days
Stopping is not allowed on working days, including Saturdays. However, you may stop on Sundays and public holidays.
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No stopping on roadway and hard shoulder
Stopping is prohibited on both the roadway and the hard shoulder. Keep the traffic flow clear.
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No vehicles allowed
This sign is often used to restrict specific types of vehicles or actions. For example, a plain red circle might indicate 'No Bicycles,' or 'No Trucks,' depending on the additional symbols or text inside or below the sign. Vehicles may come out of this road.
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No entry
This sign applies to all vehicles unless there are specific exemptions (like residents or service vehicles marked below). It explicity means that no vehicles are allowed to enter beyond the sign. Vehicles may come out of this road.
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Bicycles not allowed
Bicycles are not allowed from using a road marked with this sign.
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Motorized bicycle not allowed
Motorized bicycles are not allowed from using this road.
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Motorcycles not allowed
Motorcycles are prohibited from using roads marked with this sign.
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Cars and Trucks not allowed
Vehicles such as cars and trucks are prohibited from using a road marked with this sign.
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Entry only for residents
Entry is restricted to the residents and people visiting them, other vehicles are not allowed.
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No entry 100 m ahead
Vehicles are not allowed to enter 100 meters ahead. Please find an alternative route or stop before reaching this sign.
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Maximum speed 60 km/h
You cannot drive faster than 60 km/h speed.
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Maximum speed 60 km/h in wet conditions
You cannot drive more than 60km/h speed only if the roadway is wet.
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Overtaking prohibited 200 m ahead
This sign indicates the start of a no-overtaking in 200 m ahead, be prepared to reduce speed to ensure the road safety.
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Overtaking prohibited for Coaches or Buses
Buses and Coaches are prohibited from overtaking on this road.
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Axle weight limit 2t
Vehicles with an actual axle weight exceeding 2 tons are prohibited from using roads marked with this sign.
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Speed Limit - 30 km/h in the night
Maximum speed of 30 km/h applies between 10 pm and 6 am due to noise protection. Drive quietly in the residential areas.
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Height restriction - 3.8 meters
Vehicles exceeding 3.8m in height are prohibited from entering this road. Obey height restrictions to prevent accidents.
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Width restriction - 2 meters
Vehicles exceeding 2 meters wide including load are prohibited from entering this road.
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Give Way to Oncoming Traffic
Do not take precedence to oncoming traffic, you must allow oncoming vehicles to pass first.
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Weight limit - 7.5t Total mass
Vehicles exceeding a total weight of 7.5 tons including load are not permitted after this sign.
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Actual Mass limit
This sign indicates the actual weight limit for vehicles on this road. Vehicles with more than 5,5 tonns are not allowed.
B. Mandatory Signs
These signs indicate actions that must be followed, such as "Turn Left," "Use a Specific Lane," or "Minimum Speed Limit." They have a circular shape with a blue background and white pictograms to ensure clear visibility and compliance.
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Minimum speed 60 km/h
I must drive and maintain a miniumum speed of 60 km/h, provided road and traffic conditions allow, and only use this lane if my vehicle can and is legally permitted to travel at least 60 km/h.
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Proceed only to the left
You must indicate left and may only proceed to the left.
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Proceed only to the right
You must indicate right and may only proceed to the right.
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Pass on the Right of Traffic Islands
Drivers must stay on the right when approaching central dividers or islands. Be alert and follow the road markings.
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Pass on the Left of Traffic Islands
Drivers must stay on the left when approaching central dividers or islands. Be alert and follow the road markings.
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Compulsory right turn
The sign requires you to turn right. You must signal right and are only permitted to proceed right. Going straight or turning left is strictly prohibited.
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Compulsory left turn
The sign requires you to turn right. You must signal left and are only permitted to proceed left. Going straight or turning right is strictly prohibited.
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Compulsory left or right turn
The sign requires you to turn left or right. You must signal your intention by activating your indicator and proceed only in the indicated direction. Going straight is strictly prohibited.
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Compulsory straight or right turn
The sign requires you to go straight ahead or turn right. You must signal when turning right. Turning left is prohibited.
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Compulsory straight
You may drive only straight ahead.
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Bicycle lane
Only Bicycles are allowed to use this cycle path.
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Bus lane
Only buses are allowed to use this lane marked with this symbol.
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Tires with snow chains
Snow chains must be fitted to tires, and the maximum allowed speed is 50 km/h. Drive carefully in winter conditions.
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Bridle Path - Horse Only
This path is restricted for horse riders, who are required to use it. Other road users are ont permitted to drive in this way.
C. Priority Signs
These signs define right-of-way rules at intersections and road junctions. Examples include "Stop," "Yield," and "Priority Road." Their shape varies depending on the instruction: triangular signs (warning of yielding obligations), rectangular signs (indicating priority routes), and the octagonal stop sign, which is uniquely shaped for instant recognition.
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Stop
A stop sign requires drivers to come to a complete halt at the stop line, crosswalk, or intersection and yield to approaching traffic or pedestrians before proceeding.
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Yield/Give way
Approach at a moderate speed, be ready to brake, and give the right of way to the cross-wise moving traffic.
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Give way & watch for cyclists and Electric scooters
Give way to other traffic while staying alert for cyclists and electric scooters coming from both the left and right.

100m ahead stop and give way
A traffic sign 100 meters ahead indicates Stop and requires you to give way to other traffic before proceeding.
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Priority road
his sign indicates a priority road, where vehicles have the right of way at all intersections until the priority road ends. Other road users must yield when entering or crossing this road.

End of priority road
The road you are travelling on is no longer the priority road. After this point, right-of-way rules apply, so yield to traffic from the right at unmarked intersections. Proceed with caution.
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Priority road turning left
The priority curves left, must signal a left-turn when following the priority road.
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Priority at next intersection
You have the right of way at the upcoming intersection. However, remain cautious and watch for other road users who may not yield as required.
3. Informational Signs
Informational signs are used to provide drivers with essential guidance, services, or general road-related information. They help improve traffic flow, safety, and navigation by offering details about facilities, directions, and road conditions. Typically rectangular or square for clear readability. Often have a blue background with white text or symbols, though some may use other colors depending on the type of information.
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Zebra crossing
Pedestrians have the right-of-way, approach at a moderate speed. Allow pedestrians to cross if they intend to. Do not stop on the crossing if traffic backs up.
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Auto Gas Filling Station
This station provides LPG (Liquified Petroleum Gas) for vehicles. Must follow the safety regulations while refueling.
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Hydrogen Filling Station
This station provides H2 (Hydrogen) for hydrogen-powered vehicles. Follow the safety regulations while refueling.
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Electric vehicle charging Station
This station provides electric power to charge the electric vehicles.
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Natural gas fuel station
This station provides natural gas as a fuel for vehicles powered by CNG. Follow safety guidelines while refueling.
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First aid station
This sign indicates the presence of a first aid station, where medical assistance is available.
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Taxi Stand
Parking and stopping is not permitted in this area. Expect taxis moving off and coming to a stop.
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Traffic controlled by assitants
Traffic assistants are here to help regulate traffic. Traffic can be stopped to allow children to cross street. Expect children to run onto the road. Drive with paritcular caution here.
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Park & Ride
A parking area with connections to public transport for easy travel.
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Restricted parking only for disabled
Parking is reserved only for disabled or person those accompanying them with an official permit. Others are not alloed to park, even briefly for shopping.
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Parking area
Be prepared for vehicles turning onto the road, oncoming vehicles turing left, and pedestrians on the road.

Parking with a valid ticket
It is a restricted parking, you can park only with a ticket or a voucher and must be displayed clearly so it is visible and for verficiation. The time indicated in the ticket should not be exceeded.
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Restricted residents parking
Only residents with a parking permit matching the specified number are allowed to park here.
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A Customs Checkpoint
Stop for border inspection and clearance.
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Start of autobahn
Use the left lane is only for fast drivers and to overtaking, never pass on the right, signal for lange changes, and obey speed limits. Carry reflective vest, warning traingle, and first-aid kit and keep emergency lanes clear.
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End of autobahn
The motorway ends here; expect the changes in speed limits and road conditions and drive accordingly.
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Streetlights not lit all night
This traffic sign indicates that street lighting is not active throughout the night, so drive with caution.
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A cul-de-sac
A cul-de-sac is a dead-end street with a single entrance and no through traffic, often ending in a circular or rounded area for turning vehicles.
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Bustop
This is a bus stop. You may stop within 15 meters in front of or behind the bus stop sign, provided you do not obstruct passengers boarding or getting down the bus. Parking is prohibited here.
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Minimum Speed Required - 61 km/h
Motor vehicles must be capable of at least 61 km/h by its design to drive on this road.
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End of Clearway for Motor Vehicles
This sign marks the end of the designated clearway for motor vehicles. Other types of vehicles may proceed.
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Level crossing 80 m ahead
There is a railway crossing aheadh of 80 m, reduce the speed and be ready to break. Watch both sides when crossing it.
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Level crossing 160 m ahead
There is a railway crossing aheadh of 160 m, reduce the speed and be ready to break. Watch both sides when crossing it.
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End of no-waiting area
Parking and waiting restrictions no longer apply beyond this sign.
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30 km/h speed limit zone
Start of a area with maximum permitted speed of 30 km/h. Drive carefully and follow the speed limit.

End of 30 km/h speed limit
End of the maximum permitted speed 30 km/h limit zone. One can drive more than 30 km/h if the traffic conditions allow.
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End of speed and overtaking restrictions
You may drive faster than the current speed limit and can overtake if the traffic conditions permit.
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End of 60km/h speed restriction
The restriction of 60 km/h speed is no longer applicable. You may adjust your speed as traffic and road conditions allow.
4. Directional Signs
Directional Signs (Wegweiser) serve the purpose of guiding road users by providing essential information about routes, directions, and distances to various destinations. These signs help drivers navigate efficiently by indicating upcoming exits, highway connections, city names, and points of interest.
- Motorway signs: These signs feature a blue background with white text and arrows, primarily used on autobahns and expressways to indicate major routes and exits.
Autobahn traffic diversion
This sign indicates alternative routes to autobahns and clearways, which are recommended for use when necessary.
Autobahn number
This sign indicates the number of an autobahn.
A sign board on Autobahn
The number '26' refers to the Autobahn exit number, and the distance of 1000 meters from the exit to Dusseldorf-Benrath.
Emergency stop and breakdown bay
Designated area for stopping in case of emergencies or vehicle breakdowns. Use only when necessary.
- Secondary road signs: These signs have a yellow background with black text, guiding drivers along national and regional roads.
Start of the city/built-up area
This sign marks the start of the city, where the speed limit is 50 km/h. Drivers may sound their horn to signal overtaking intentions, and parked vehicles may be marked with parking lights for safety.
End of the city/built-up area
At this point, the built-up area of Wilster ends, and the next city, Schotten is 6 kilometers away.
Numbered diversion
A numberede diversion sign marks alternate routes during road closures and guide drivers efficiently.
Federal road number
This board with number indicates a specific federal highway, indicating an important route with the national road network.
- Tourist route signs: These signs are distinguished by a brown background, highlight scenic or culturally significant locations such as historic landmarks, nature reserves, or sightseeing routes.
5. Special Signs
Special signs designate areas with unique traffic rules. Environmental zones restrict entry to low-emission vehicles. Residential zones prioritize pedestrians, requiring vehicles to drive at walking speed. Bicycle paths and pedestrian areas limit access to motor vehicles, ensuring safer, dedicated spaces for non-motorized transport.
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Pedestrian way
Only pedestirans are permitted on this footpath. No entry for cycles and mopeds.
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End of traffic calming zone
When you see this sign at the end of a street, it means you must stop and wait at the intersection, giving priority to all other traffic and proceed only when it is safe and clear.
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Street for Cyclists and Residents visitors
Only cyclists and visitors of residents are permitted to drive on this street. Residents driving in this street must not block bicycles and must drive under 30 km/h. Bicycles can ride side by side.
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Entry for Pedestrians and Delivery vehicles
Only pedestrians and delivery vehicles are permitted on this road. Drivers must remain alert, give way to pedestrians, and drive at walking speed.
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Cyclist zone and Residents visitors
Only cyclists and visitors of residents are permitted to drive on this zone. Residents driving in this zone must not block bicycles and must drive under 30 km/h. Bicycles can ride side by side.
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One-Way Street with Cyclists
hile the street is one-way for vehicles, cyclists can travel in both directions. When overtaking cyclists, maintain a minimum passing distance of 1.5 meters.
Conclusion
Understanding these categories is essential for ensuring compliance with traffic regulations and enhancing overall road safety. Road traffic signs are designed to be universally recognizable, using standardized shapes, colors, and symbols to convey important information quickly and effectively. By relying on symbols rather than text, these signs overcome language barriers, making them accessible to all road users, regardless of their native language. Proper awareness and interpretation of these signs help drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians navigate roads safely, reduce accidents, and maintain an orderly flow of traffic.