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


Road traffic signs

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.

Danger with pedestrains
Danger with pedestrains

This sign warns of potential pedestrain danger. Drivers should reduce speed, stay alert, and be prepared to brake at any moment.

Double curve - First bend right
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.

Double curve - First bend left
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.

Bumpy/Rough road
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.

Danger of skidding
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.

Danger/Caution Area Ahead
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.

Road used for winter sport
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.

Road used by Horse and carriages
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.

Unmarked intersection ahead
Unmarked intersection ahead

When you see this sign, reduce your speed, be prepared to brake, and give way to traffic approaching from the right.

Wild animals crossing for 3km
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.

Loose chippings
Loose chippings

Loose chippings reduce traction and increase skid risk. Avoid rapid acceleration, keep a safe distance, and avoid sudden maneuvers.

Pedestrian crossing
Pedestrian crossing

You must be especially attentive, watch out for pedestrains, be ready to brake, and approach the pedestrian crossing at a moderate speed.

Low-flying aircraft
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.

Traffic congestion
Traffic congestion

We must anticipate that vehicles ahead may suddenly brake, potentially causing traffic congestion.

Road narrows
Road narrows

Reduce your speed before reaching the narrow road and avoid overtaking other vehicles.

Road narrows in 50 m ahead
Road narrows in 50 m ahead

The roadway narrows approximately 50 m ahead, reduce your speed and avoid overtaking other vehicles.

Road narrows on right side
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.

Work in progress
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.

Work in progress 100m ahead
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.

Steep uphill road
Steep uphill road

The road inclines upward about 12%, requiring lower gears and increased engine power. Drive cautiously and maintain a steady speed.

Steep downhill road
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.

Steep descent/downhill for 800 m
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.

Road ends at waterway
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.

Traffic lights
Traffic lights

Follow the traffic signals to ensure road safety. Stop when the light is red and proceed when it is green.

Moveable bridge
Moveable bridge

Be prepared for the bridge to open or close. Follow the signal and proceed with caution.

A Rail Crossing
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.

Rail crossing on right turn
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.

Strong Sidewind
Strong Sidewind

Strong crosswinds may push your vehicle sideways. Maintain a strong grip on the steering wheel and adjust speed accordingly.

Hazard with Huge trees and fallen branches
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.

Icy conditions & Packed snow
Icy conditions & Packed snow

Expect slippery roads due to packed snow and ice. Drive carefully and reduce speed.

Farm animals on the road
Farm animals on the road

Be prepared for livestock on the road and dirt-covered surfaces.

Traffic Congestion
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.

Rail Crossing 240m ahead
Rail Crossing 240m ahead

Expect a rail crossing at a distance of 240m, reduce speed and be prepared to stop for passing train.

Oncoming traffic
Oncoming traffic

Expect oncoming traffic and dazzle from oncoming vehicles headlights at night. Drive carefully

Danger with Horse riders
Danger with Horse riders

This sign warns of a potential danger with horse riders on or near the roadway. Drive with caution.

Cyclists Crossing Ahead
Cyclists Crossing Ahead

Be prepared for cyclists crossing the carriageway. Drive cautiously and give way if necessary.

Falling Stones Hazard
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.

Hard right-hand bend
Hard right-hand bend

Be prepared for vehicles ahead to slow down suddenly. Watch for oncoming traffic that may cut the corner.

Hard left-hand bend
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.

No Parking zone
No Parking zone

Parking is prohibited. You may stop for up to 3 minutes. Loading, unloading, and passenger boarding or alighting are permitted.

Parking only for disabled with a permit
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.

No stopping
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.

Start of no-stopping zone
Start of no-stopping zone

Until this sign one can stop. But after this sign, stopping is prohibited.

End of no-stopping zone
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.

No stopping zone
No stopping zone

Stopping is prohibited both before and after the sign on the designated side of the road.

No overtaking
No overtaking

You are not allowed to overtake vehicles except motorcycle without sidecar, mopeds and bicycles.

No Overtaking for 3km
No Overtaking for 3km

You are not allowed to overtake vehicles for 3km on this road.

No Overtaking of any vehicle
No Overtaking of any vehicle

Overtaking any other vehicle is not permitted on this section of the road.

U-turn prohibited
U-turn prohibited

A U-turn is not permitted here. Drivers must continue in their current direction.

No stopping on working days
No stopping on working days

Stopping is not allowed on working days, including Saturdays. However, you may stop on Sundays and public holidays.

No stopping on roadway and hard shoulder
No stopping on roadway and hard shoulder

Stopping is prohibited on both the roadway and the hard shoulder. Keep the traffic flow clear.

No vehicles allowed
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.

No entry
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.

Bicycles not allowed
Bicycles not allowed

Bicycles are not allowed from using a road marked with this sign.

Motorized bicycle not allowed
Motorized bicycle not allowed

Motorized bicycles are not allowed from using this road.

Motorcycles not allowed
Motorcycles not allowed

Motorcycles are prohibited from using roads marked with this sign.

Cars and Trucks not allowed
Cars and Trucks not allowed

Vehicles such as cars and trucks are prohibited from using a road marked with this sign.

Entry only for residents
Entry only for residents

Entry is restricted to the residents and people visiting them, other vehicles are not allowed.

No entry 100 m ahead
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.

Maximum speed 60 km/h
Maximum speed 60 km/h

You cannot drive faster than 60 km/h speed.

Maximum speed 60 km/h in wet conditions
Maximum speed 60 km/h in wet conditions

You cannot drive more than 60km/h speed only if the roadway is wet.

Overtaking prohibited 200 m ahead
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.

Overtaking prohibited for Coaches or Buses
Overtaking prohibited for Coaches or Buses

Buses and Coaches are prohibited from overtaking on this road.

Axle weight limit 2t
Axle weight limit 2t

Vehicles with an actual axle weight exceeding 2 tons are prohibited from using roads marked with this sign.

Speed Limit - 30 km/h in the night
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.

Height restriction - 3.8 meters
Height restriction - 3.8 meters

Vehicles exceeding 3.8m in height are prohibited from entering this road. Obey height restrictions to prevent accidents.

Width restriction - 2 meters
Width restriction - 2 meters

Vehicles exceeding 2 meters wide including load are prohibited from entering this road.

Give Way to Oncoming Traffic
Give Way to Oncoming Traffic

Do not take precedence to oncoming traffic, you must allow oncoming vehicles to pass first.

Weight limit - 7.5t Total mass
Weight limit - 7.5t Total mass

Vehicles exceeding a total weight of 7.5 tons including load are not permitted after this sign.

Actual Mass limit
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.

Minimum speed 60 km/h
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.

Proceed only to the left
Proceed only to the left

You must indicate left and may only proceed to the left.

Proceed only to the right
Proceed only to the right

You must indicate right and may only proceed to the right.

Pass on the Right of Traffic Islands
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.

Pass on the Left of Traffic Islands
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.

Compulsory right turn
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.

Compulsory left turn
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.

Compulsory left or right turn
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.

Compulsory straight or right turn
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.

Compulsory straight
Compulsory straight

You may drive only straight ahead.

Bicycle lane
Bicycle lane

Only Bicycles are allowed to use this cycle path.

Bus lane
Bus lane

Only buses are allowed to use this lane marked with this symbol.

Tires with snow chains
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.

Bridle Path - Horse Only
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.

Stop
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.

Yield/Give way
Yield/Give way

Approach at a moderate speed, be ready to brake, and give the right of way to the cross-wise moving traffic.

Give way & watch for cyclists and Electric scooters
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
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.

Priority road
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
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.

Priority road turning left
Priority road turning left

The priority curves left, must signal a left-turn when following the priority road.

Priority at next intersection
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.

Zebra crossing
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.

Auto Gas Filling Station
Auto Gas Filling Station

This station provides LPG (Liquified Petroleum Gas) for vehicles. Must follow the safety regulations while refueling.

Hydrogen Filling Station
Hydrogen Filling Station

This station provides H2 (Hydrogen) for hydrogen-powered vehicles. Follow the safety regulations while refueling.

Electric vehicle charging Station
Electric vehicle charging Station

This station provides electric power to charge the electric vehicles.

Natural gas fuel station
Natural gas fuel station

This station provides natural gas as a fuel for vehicles powered by CNG. Follow safety guidelines while refueling.

First aid station
First aid station

This sign indicates the presence of a first aid station, where medical assistance is available.

Taxi Stand
Taxi Stand

Parking and stopping is not permitted in this area. Expect taxis moving off and coming to a stop.

Traffic controlled by assitants
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.

Park & Ride
Park & Ride

A parking area with connections to public transport for easy travel.

Restricted parking only for disabled
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.

Parking area
Parking area

Be prepared for vehicles turning onto the road, oncoming vehicles turing left, and pedestrians on the road.

Parking with a valid ticket
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.

Restricted residents parking
Restricted residents parking

Only residents with a parking permit matching the specified number are allowed to park here.

A Customs Checkpoint
A Customs Checkpoint

Stop for border inspection and clearance.

Start of autobahn
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.

End of autobahn
End of autobahn

The motorway ends here; expect the changes in speed limits and road conditions and drive accordingly.

Streetlights not lit all night
Streetlights not lit all night

This traffic sign indicates that street lighting is not active throughout the night, so drive with caution.

A cul-de-sac
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.

Bustop
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.

Minimum Speed Required - 61 km/h
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.

End of Clearway for Motor Vehicles
End of Clearway for Motor Vehicles

This sign marks the end of the designated clearway for motor vehicles. Other types of vehicles may proceed.

Level crossing 80 m ahead
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.

Level crossing 160 m ahead
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.

End of no-waiting area
End of no-waiting area

Parking and waiting restrictions no longer apply beyond this sign.

30 km/h speed limit zone
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 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.

End of speed and overtaking restrictions
End of speed and overtaking restrictions

You may drive faster than the current speed limit and can overtake if the traffic conditions permit.

End of 60km/h speed restriction
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.

They are categorized based on the type of road they apply to:
  • 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
    Autobahn traffic diversion

    This sign indicates alternative routes to autobahns and clearways, which are recommended for use when necessary.

    Autobahn number
    Autobahn number

    This sign indicates the number of an autobahn.

    A sign board on 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
    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
    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
    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
    Numbered diversion

    A numberede diversion sign marks alternate routes during road closures and guide drivers efficiently.

    Federal road number
    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.

Pedestrian way
Pedestrian way

Only pedestirans are permitted on this footpath. No entry for cycles and mopeds.

End of traffic calming zone
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.

Street for Cyclists and Residents visitors
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.

Entry for Pedestrians and Delivery vehicles
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.

Cyclist zone and Residents visitors
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.

One-Way Street with Cyclists
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.