Logo
German Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

Understand the German Lane Shift Board (Sign 514-22) with Oncoming Traffic

514-22 - Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - with oncoming traffic – to the right 3- lane in the direction of travel 1-lane in the opposite direction German road sign meaning

German road sign 514-22, officially 'Verschwenkungstafel kurze Verschwenkung - mit Gegenverkehr', indicates a temporary lane shift to the right, featuring three lanes for your direction and one for oncoming traffic. This sign typically warns of roadworks or temporary lane changes, requiring you to adapt your speed and position early. Always pay close attention to road markings and any supplementary signs that may further clarify lane arrangements or instructions for this situation.

Understanding Lane Shift Sign 514-22

Master the meaning of German road sign 514-22, a crucial element for your theory test revision, which indicates a short lane shift to the right where 3 lanes are for your direction and 1 is for oncoming traffic. This detailed explanation helps you interpret the lane arrangement and make safe driving decisions, essential for understanding traffic rules and road sign meanings in Germany.

Definition of 514-22

German road sign 514-22, officially designated "Verschwenkungstafel kurze Verschwenkung - mit Gegenverkehr – nach rechts 3- streifig in Fahrtrichtung und 1-streifig in Gegenrichtung", 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 right 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 514-22

German road sign 514-22 means "Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - with oncoming traffic – to the right 3- lane in the direction of travel 1-lane in the opposite direction" and is officially listed as "Verschwenkungstafel kurze Verschwenkung - mit Gegenverkehr – nach rechts 3- streifig in Fahrtrichtung und 1-streifig in Gegenrichtung". 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 514-22

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 514-22

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.

514-22 - Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - with oncoming traffic – to the right 3- lane in the direction of travel 1-lane in the opposite direction road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the 514-22 - Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - with oncoming traffic – to the right 3- lane in the direction of travel 1-lane in the opposite direction 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 German sign 514-22 specifically tell me about lane usage?

Sign 514-22 shows that the lanes are temporarily shifted to the right. Your direction will have three lanes available, while oncoming traffic will be restricted to a single lane. This arrangement is usually temporary, often due to roadworks, and requires careful observation of the changing road layout.

When will I typically encounter sign 514-22?

You'll commonly see sign 514-22 in areas with temporary lane adjustments, such as roadworks, construction zones, or temporary traffic management schemes on motorways and multi-lane roads. It signals a need to merge or shift lanes well before reaching the actual point of divergence.

What are the key actions required when seeing sign 514-22?

Upon seeing sign 514-22, your primary actions are to recognize the lane shift early, adjust your speed to the temporary conditions, and select the correct lane well in advance. You must also be extra vigilant for oncoming traffic using the single lane in the opposite direction and follow all temporary road markings and signs.

Are there any common exam traps related to sign 514-22?

A common trap is reacting too late to the lane shift. Learners might continue in their current lane until the very last moment, only to find it's ending or has been diverted. The sign emphasizes early adaptation, so be prepared to move to the correct lane proactively, not reactively.

What is the purpose of the 'with oncoming traffic' indication on sign 514-22?

The 'with oncoming traffic' part of sign 514-22 is critical. It means the lane shift is not just about changing lanes within your direction of travel, but also involves managing opposing traffic. You need to be aware that traffic from the opposite direction is narrowed to one lane, which can increase the risk of head-on collisions if not managed carefully.

Can road markings or supplementary signs alter the meaning of sign 514-22?

Yes, absolutely. While sign 514-22 provides the general layout, specific road markings (like cones, temporary lines) and any supplementary plates can provide crucial details. Always integrate the information from the sign with these other visual cues to understand the precise lane usage and any specific instructions.

514-22 - Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - with oncoming traffic – to the right 3- lane in the direction of travel 1-lane in the opposite direction road sign image

A clear reference image of the 514-22 - Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - with oncoming traffic – to the right 3- lane in the direction of travel 1-lane in the opposite direction road sign used in Germany.

514-22 - Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - with oncoming traffic – to the right 3- lane in the direction of travel 1-lane in the opposite direction road sign

Other names for the 514-22 - Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - with oncoming traffic – to the right 3- lane in the direction of travel 1-lane in the opposite direction

The 514-22 - Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - with oncoming traffic – to the right 3- lane in the direction of travel 1-lane in the opposite direction road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

German road sign 514-22German traffic sign 514-22StVO sign 514-22Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - with oncoming traffic – to the right 3- lane in the direction of travel 1-lane in the opposite direction signVerschwenkungstafel kurze Verschwenkung - mit Gegenverkehr – nach rechts 3- streifig in Fahrtrichtung und 1-streifig in Gegenrichtungtraffic control boards 514-22

German Traffic Control Boards road sign category

The 514-22 - Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - with oncoming traffic – to the right 3- lane in the direction of travel 1-lane in the opposite direction road sign is part of the German Traffic Control Boards category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.

Reinforce Your Knowledge with Similar Signs

Comparing related road signs helps solidify your understanding and reduces errors during the German theory test. Reviewing similar traffic signs side-by-side enhances sign recognition and aids in your exam preparation for official procedures.

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

Ready to Master German Road Signs? Start Your Focused Revision

Deepen your understanding of specific road sign categories or test your knowledge with practice questions. Explore our themed sign groups for targeted study or jump into quizzes to reinforce your recognition skills for the official German theory exam.

All German Road Signs List
CTA Decorative Squares

Dive into German road sign knowledge

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