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German Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

Sign 513-10: Navigate Lane Shifts Safely on German Roads

513-10 - Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - without oncoming traffic - 1-lane to the left German road sign meaning

German road sign 513-10, also known as a 'Verschwenkungstafel', indicates a short lane shift to the left, without oncoming traffic. This traffic control board is typically seen in roadworks or temporary traffic management situations to guide you through lane changes, narrowing, or diversions. Early recognition and adaptation are key to safely navigate these altered road layouts, especially on motorways or multi-lane roads. Always combine its guidance with road markings and any supplementary signs to ensure a smooth and safe transition.

Understanding the German Lane Shift Board (513-10)

Master the meaning of German road sign 513-10, the lane shift board indicating a short diversion to the left without oncoming traffic. Understanding this traffic sign explanation is crucial for your theory test revision and safe navigation through roadworks.

Definition of 513-10

German road sign 513-10, officially designated "Verschwenkungstafel kurze Verschwenkung - ohne Gegenverkehr - 1-streifig nach links", belongs to the traffic control boards group. It shows how lanes are arranged, shifted, narrowed, separated, or merged, usually before a roadworks or high-speed lane-change area. You may see it in motorways, multilane roads, temporary roadworks, lane closures, lane shifts, merge areas, and construction-stage traffic management, depending on how the road authority has arranged the location. Any left reference should be read as part of the direction, road side, lane arrangement, or placement shown by the sign. 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 translating the arrows into early lane choice rather than reacting at the last moment. Always combine the sign with road markings, traffic lights, police instructions, and any supplementary plates at the same location.

Meaning of 513-10

German road sign 513-10 means "Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - without oncoming traffic - 1-lane to the left" and is officially listed as "Verschwenkungstafel kurze Verschwenkung - ohne Gegenverkehr - 1-streifig nach links". 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 513-10

Read the full lane diagram before reaching the taper, merge, or separated traffic stream.Select the correct lane early and signal lane changes clearly when a change is necessary.Reduce speed to match the temporary lane width, curvature, traffic density, and roadworks environment.Keep extra following distance because drivers ahead may react to the lane layout at different times.Follow temporary signs, cones, barriers, and lane markings as one combined traffic-guidance system.

Prohibited actions for 513-10

Do not wait until the lane shift, taper, or merge point before choosing the correct lane.Do not continue in a lane that the board shows as closed, diverted, ending, or reserved for a different movement.Do not overtake aggressively through the controlled section, especially where lanes narrow or traffic is being shifted.Do not ignore temporary roadworks markings because they may override normal lane expectations.

513-10 - Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - without oncoming traffic - 1-lane to the left road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the 513-10 - Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - without oncoming traffic - 1-lane to the left 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 is the main purpose of sign 513-10 (short lane shift board)?

Sign 513-10 informs you about an upcoming short shift or diversion of lanes to the left. Its purpose is to prepare drivers for a temporary change in the road layout, ensuring they select the correct lane in advance and adjust their speed and position accordingly, especially in areas with roadworks.

How should I react when I see sign 513-10?

Upon seeing sign 513-10, you must anticipate the lane shift to the left. It's crucial to reduce your speed, check your mirrors, and move into the appropriate lane early. Avoid waiting until the last moment, as this can create dangerous situations for yourself and other drivers.

Does sign 513-10 mean I must change lanes immediately?

Not necessarily immediately, but you must be prepared to change lanes soon. The sign signals that the normal lane arrangement is changing. You should actively scan the road ahead for cones, barriers, and updated road markings to determine precisely where and when you need to shift lanes.

What are common mistakes related to sign 513-10 in the theory exam?

A common exam trap is not understanding that the sign requires proactive behaviour. Learners might mistakenly think they can wait until the actual lane closure or merge point to react. The exam tests your ability to foresee and plan for the lane shift indicated by the sign well in advance.

What if there are additional plates or different road markings with sign 513-10?

Sign 513-10 is often used in conjunction with other traffic management elements. Always pay close attention to any supplementary plates, temporary traffic lights, cones, or road markings, as these provide more specific instructions about the lane shift, temporary speed limits, or merging procedures.

513-10 - Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - without oncoming traffic - 1-lane to the left road sign image

A clear reference image of the 513-10 - Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - without oncoming traffic - 1-lane to the left road sign used in Germany.

513-10 - Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - without oncoming traffic - 1-lane to the left road sign

Other names for the 513-10 - Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - without oncoming traffic - 1-lane to the left

The 513-10 - Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - without oncoming traffic - 1-lane to the left road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

German road sign 513-10German traffic sign 513-10StVO sign 513-10Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - without oncoming traffic - 1-lane to the left signVerschwenkungstafel kurze Verschwenkung - ohne Gegenverkehr - 1-streifig nach linkstraffic control boards 513-10

German Traffic Control Boards road sign category

The 513-10 - Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - without oncoming traffic - 1-lane to the left road sign is part of the German Traffic Control Boards category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.

Reinforce Your Understanding of Similar Signs

Comparing signs like this one helps reinforce your learning and reduces confusion. Examining similar traffic signs side-by-side is essential for accurate sign recognition and mastering the German theory test.

501-11 - Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 2-lane to the left road sign

Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 2-lane to the left

Understand the Lane Transfer Board (501-11) for Shifting Lanes Left Safely

German Traffic Control Boards501-11
501-14 - Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 3-lane to the left, with 1 lane diverted road sign

Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 3-lane to the left, with 1 lane diverted

Navigate lane changes safely with the German Sign 501-14 Lane Transfer Board

German Traffic Control Boards501-14
501-16 - Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic – 2-lane, with linker lane to the left diverted rechter lane straight ahead road sign

Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic – 2-lane, with linker lane to the left diverted rechter lane straight ahead

Understand Lane Transfer Sign 501-16: Prepare for Diverted Lanes Ahead

German Traffic Control Boards501-16
501-19 - Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane, with linker lane to the left diverted drei rechten lane straight ahead road sign

Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane, with linker lane to the left diverted drei rechten lane straight ahead

Understand German Lane Transfer Board 501-19: Shifting Lanes Ahead

German Traffic Control Boards501-19
501-26 - Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 2-lane, with linker lane to the right diverted rechter lane straight ahead road sign

Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 2-lane, with linker lane to the right diverted rechter lane straight ahead

Master lane changes with German road sign 501-26 for lane transfers.

German Traffic Control Boards501-26
501-29 - Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane, with linker lane to the right diverted drei rechten lane straight ahead road sign

Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane, with linker lane to the right diverted drei rechten lane straight ahead

Understand the Lane Transfer Board (501-29) for Lane Adjustments

German Traffic Control Boards501-29
501-50 - Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane, with beiden linken lane to the left diverted beiden rechten lane straight ahead road sign

Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane, with beiden linken lane to the left diverted beiden rechten lane straight ahead

Navigate Lane Changes Safely with the German 4-Lane Transfer Board (Sign 501-50)

German Traffic Control Boards501-50
501-51 - Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane, with drei linken lane to the left diverted rechter lane straight ahead road sign

Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane, with drei linken lane to the left diverted rechter lane straight ahead

Master German Sign 501-51: Understanding Lane Transfers and Lane Divergences

German Traffic Control Boards501-51

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German Driving Theory B courseGerman Driving Theory AM courseGerman HGV Theory - C/CE courseGerman Motorcycle Theory A courseGerman Bus & Coach Theory (D) courseGerman Regulatory Signs German road sign categoryGerman Supplementary Signs German road sign categoryGerman Danger Warning Signs German road sign categoryGerman Traffic Control Boards German road sign categoryGerman Guide and Information Signs German road sign categoryGerman Traffic Facilities and Road Markings German road sign category501-11 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 2-lane to the left German road sign501-14 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 3-lane to the left, with 1 lane diverted German road sign501-52 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane to the left, with 1 lane diverted German road sign501-53 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane to the left, with 2 lane diverted German road sign501-54 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane to the left, with 3 lane diverted German road sign501-62 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane to the right, with 1 lane diverted German road sign501-63 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane to the right, with 2 lane diverted German road sign501-64 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane to the right, with 3 lane diverted German road sign505-11 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic with integriertem Zeichen 264 StVO - 2-lane to the left German road sign501-16 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic – 2-lane, with linker lane to the left diverted rechter lane straight ahead German road sign501-26 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 2-lane, with linker lane to the right diverted rechter lane straight ahead German road sign501-19 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane, with linker lane to the left diverted drei rechten lane straight ahead German road sign501-51 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane, with drei linken lane to the left diverted rechter lane straight ahead German road sign501-29 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane, with linker lane to the right diverted drei rechten lane straight ahead German road sign501-61 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane, with drei linken lane to the right diverted rechter lane straight ahead German road sign501-70 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 2-lane, with linker lane to the left diverted rechter lane to the right verschwenkt German road sign501-80 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 2-lane, with linker lane to the right diverted rechter lane to the left verschwenkt German road sign501-50 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane, with beiden linken lane to the left diverted beiden rechten lane straight ahead German road sign501-60 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane, with beiden linken lane to the right diverted beiden rechten lane straight ahead German road sign501-73 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane, with linker lane to the left diverted drei rechten lane to the right verschwenkt German road sign501-75 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane, with drei linken lane to the left diverted rechter lane to the right verschwenkt German road sign501-83 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane, with linker lane to the right diverted drei rechten lane to the left verschwenkt German road sign501-85 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane, with drei linken lane to the right diverted rechter lane to the left verschwenkt German road sign501-71 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 3-lane, with linker lane to the left diverted beiden rechten lane to the right verschwenkt German road sign501-72 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 3-lane, with beiden linken lane to the left diverted rechter lane to the right verschwenkt German road sign501-81 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 3-lane, with linker lane to the right diverted beiden rechten lane to the left verschwenkt German road sign501-82 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 3-lane, with beiden linken lane to the right diverted rechter lane to the left verschwenkt German road sign501-74 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane, with beiden linken lane to the left diverted beiden rechten lane to the right verschwenkt German road sign501-84 Lane transfer board - without oncoming traffic - 4-lane, with beiden linken lane to the right diverted beiden rechten lane to the left verschwenkt German road sign