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German Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

Understand the Lane Shift Board (514-23) Guiding Traffic with Oncoming Lanes

514-23 - Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - with oncoming traffic – to the right 1- lane in the direction of travel 2-lane in the opposite direction German road sign meaning

German road sign 514-23, officially a 'Verschwenkungstafel', indicates a lane shift due to roadworks or similar situations, often with a specific arrangement of lanes for your direction and oncoming traffic. This sign requires you to prepare for a change in lane layout, often a narrowing or divergence, and to be aware of traffic coming from the opposite direction. Pay close attention to the arrows and lane counts shown to choose the correct path early and adjust your speed accordingly, as this sign is part of traffic control boards used to manage complex road situations safely.

Lane Shift Board (514-23): Understanding the Rightward Shift

This German traffic sign 514-23 indicates a rightward lane shift, crucial for navigating areas with oncoming traffic. Proper interpretation and early adjustment are vital for your theory test revision and safe driving.

Definition of 514-23

German road sign 514-23, officially designated "Verschwenkungstafel kurze Verschwenkung - mit Gegenverkehr – nach rechts 1- streifig in Fahrtrichtung und 2-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 514-23

German road sign 514-23 means "Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - with oncoming traffic – to the right 1- lane in the direction of travel 2-lane in the opposite direction" and is officially listed as "Verschwenkungstafel kurze Verschwenkung - mit Gegenverkehr – nach rechts 1- streifig in Fahrtrichtung und 2-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 514-23

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 514-23

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.

514-23 - Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - with oncoming traffic – to the right 1- lane in the direction of travel 2-lane in the opposite direction road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the 514-23 - Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - with oncoming traffic – to the right 1- lane in the direction of travel 2-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 road sign 514-23, the lane shift board, mean?

Sign 514-23 indicates a lane shift, often due to roadworks. It specifically shows that your lane is shifting (one lane in your direction) while there are two lanes for oncoming traffic. You must prepare to adjust your lane position and potentially your speed based on the arrows shown.

What action should I take when I see sign 514-23?

When you see sign 514-23, you need to recognise the upcoming lane arrangement early. Adapt your position before you reach the controlled area, check road markings and any supplementary signs, and be ready to select the correct lane as indicated by the arrows. Reducing speed is also advisable.

Why is the number of lanes for oncoming traffic different in sign 514-23?

The differing lane counts (one for you, two for oncoming) are crucial information provided by sign 514-23. It highlights a specific traffic management setup where oncoming traffic has more capacity or a wider lane arrangement. This requires you to be extra vigilant about oncoming vehicles, especially as lanes may narrow or shift.

What are common theory exam traps related to sign 514-23?

A common trap is failing to recognise the significance of the lane counts and arrow directions, leading to late reactions or choosing the wrong lane. Learners might also ignore temporary road markings associated with the sign or fail to reduce speed adequately, especially when the lane narrows or merges.

Does sign 514-23 always mean I have to merge?

Sign 514-23 indicates a lane shift or Verschwenkung, which often involves a merge or narrowing of lanes, but not always a complete merge. The key is understanding that the lane configuration is changing, and you must follow the guided path indicated by the arrows and road markings, which could mean shifting lanes or continuing in a narrowed lane.

514-23 - Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - with oncoming traffic – to the right 1- lane in the direction of travel 2-lane in the opposite direction road sign image

A clear reference image of the 514-23 - Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - with oncoming traffic – to the right 1- lane in the direction of travel 2-lane in the opposite direction road sign used in Germany.

514-23 - Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - with oncoming traffic – to the right 1- lane in the direction of travel 2-lane in the opposite direction road sign

Other names for the 514-23 - Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - with oncoming traffic – to the right 1- lane in the direction of travel 2-lane in the opposite direction

The 514-23 - Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - with oncoming traffic – to the right 1- lane in the direction of travel 2-lane in the opposite direction road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

German road sign 514-23German traffic sign 514-23StVO sign 514-23Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - with oncoming traffic – to the right 1- lane in the direction of travel 2-lane in the opposite direction signVerschwenkungstafel kurze Verschwenkung - mit Gegenverkehr – nach rechts 1- streifig in Fahrtrichtung und 2-streifig in Gegenrichtungtraffic control boards 514-23

German Traffic Control Boards road sign category

The 514-23 - Lane shift board kurze Verschwenkung - with oncoming traffic – to the right 1- lane in the direction of travel 2-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 Road Sign Knowledge

Master German road signs by comparing related traffic signs, like this lane shift board. Understanding subtle differences aids sign recognition and helps prevent errors on your theory test revision. Explore more similar road signs to solidify your driving knowledge.

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