Driving Theory
German Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

Understand German Supplementary Sign 1012-31: The End of a Rule

1012-31 - End German road sign meaning

German road sign 1012-31, officially 'Ende', is a supplementary sign that marks the conclusion of a rule, restriction, or designated area indicated by the sign above it. It signals that you no longer need to adhere to the specific conditions set by the primary sign. Drivers must always read this sign in conjunction with the sign above to understand the full context and adjust their behaviour accordingly before the situation changes. Recognizing the end of a regulatory zone is crucial for safe driving and passing your theory exam.

Understanding the "End" Supplementary Sign

This explanation details the "Ende" sign (1012-31), clarifying when a preceding traffic rule or restriction concludes. Master this essential aspect of German road sign meaning for your theory test revision.

Definition of 1012-31

German road sign 1012-31, officially designated "Ende", belongs to the supplementary signs group. It changes how the sign above is applied by adding a distance, direction, time period, vehicle class, exception, condition, or parking detail. You may see it in below a main traffic sign, where it limits, extends, explains, or creates an exception to the rule shown above it, depending on how the road authority has arranged the location. An end version marks the point where that specific rule, facility, or marked section ceases to apply. The practical meaning is not just the symbol itself, but the driving decision it triggers: adjust speed, position, priority, route choice, stopping behaviour, or attention before the situation becomes urgent. For learners, the key skill is reading the entire sign stack from top to bottom before deciding whether the rule applies to your vehicle. Always combine the sign with road markings, traffic lights, police instructions, and any supplementary plates at the same location.

Meaning of 1012-31

German road sign 1012-31 means "End" and is officially listed as "Ende". In practice, it tells drivers to recognise the situation early, adapt before reaching the controlled area, and check whether markings or supplementary plates change how the rule applies.

Allowed actions for 1012-31

Read the main sign first, then read this plate to understand the exact scope of the rule.Apply the rule only to the vehicle types, directions, times, distances, or conditions shown.Use the plate to confirm whether you are included, exempt, limited, or being warned about a specific local condition.Look for additional plates in the same sign stack because several conditions can apply together.When uncertain, choose the safer interpretation and follow the stricter applicable rule until the sign combination is clear.

Prohibited actions for 1012-31

Do not apply the plate separately from the main sign above it.Do not ignore the vehicle class, time period, distance, direction, weather condition, or exception shown on the plate.Do not assume that an exemption for one vehicle type also applies to your vehicle.Do not continue under the main sign without checking whether the supplementary plate changes where, when, or to whom it applies.

1012-31 - End road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the 1012-31 - End road sign. Learn how the sign works, what rules it represents, and how it affects real driving situations. This FAQ strengthens your understanding and supports accurate decision making for the German driving theory exam in Germany.

What does the 'Ende' sign (1012-31) signify in Germany?

The German road sign 1012-31, 'Ende', signifies the end of the regulation or condition imposed by the main traffic sign positioned directly above it. It means that the rule, such as a speed limit, parking restriction, or priority condition, no longer applies at this point.

How should I react when I see the 'Ende' sign (1012-31) on a German road?

When you see the 'Ende' sign (1012-31) on a German road, you should first confirm the main sign it's attached to. Then, understand that the restriction or rule from the main sign is now over. You can then resume normal driving behaviour or follow any new instructions indicated by subsequent signs.

Is the 'Ende' sign (1012-31) ever used alone?

No, the 'Ende' sign (1012-31) is a supplementary sign and is never used alone. It must always be mounted below another main traffic sign. Its purpose is solely to indicate the termination point of the rule governed by the sign above it.

What is a common mistake learners make with supplementary signs like 'Ende' (1012-31) in the German theory test?

A common mistake is failing to read the entire sign stack, including the supplementary 'Ende' sign, and understanding how it modifies the main sign. Learners might forget that the restriction has ended or misinterpret when it ends, especially if there are multiple supplementary plates. Always assess the full sign combination.

Does the 'Ende' sign (1012-31) mean I can immediately speed up?

Not necessarily. While the 'Ende' sign (1012-31) indicates the end of a specific restriction (like a speed limit), you should only resume a higher speed when it is safe and legal to do so. Always check for other potential speed limits, road conditions, traffic, or further signs that might apply.

1012-31 - End road sign image

A clear reference image of the 1012-31 - End road sign used in Germany.

1012-31 - End road sign

Other names for the 1012-31 - End

The 1012-31 - End road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

German road sign 1012-31German traffic sign 1012-31StVO sign 1012-31End signEndesupplementary signs 1012-31

German Supplementary Signs road sign category

The 1012-31 - End road sign is part of the German Supplementary Signs category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.

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