Logo
German Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

Understand the German Lane Shift Board (Sign 515-11) for Traffic Diversions

515-11 - Lane shift board - without oncoming traffic with integriertem Zeichen 264 - 2-lane to the left German road sign meaning

German traffic sign 515-11, officially 'Verschwenkungstafel - ohne Gegenverkehr mit integriertem Zeichen 264', is a traffic control board that guides you through lane shifts or diversions. It informs you about how lanes are rearranged, often due to roadworks, indicating a change in your expected lane arrangement without oncoming traffic. This sign requires you to proactively adjust your driving position and speed, paying close attention to road markings and any supplementary plates to navigate safely.

Interpreting the Lane Shift Board (Sign 515-11)

This sign indicates a shift in lanes, specifically a two-lane shift to the left, crucial for navigating roadworks or lane changes safely. Mastering road sign meaning and traffic sign explanation is essential for your German theory test revision.

Definition of 515-11

German road sign 515-11, officially designated "Verschwenkungstafel - ohne Gegenverkehr mit integriertem Zeichen 264 - 2-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 515-11

German road sign 515-11 means "Lane shift board - without oncoming traffic with integriertem Zeichen 264 - 2-lane to the left" and is officially listed as "Verschwenkungstafel - ohne Gegenverkehr mit integriertem Zeichen 264 - 2-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 515-11

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 515-11

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.

515-11 - Lane shift board - without oncoming traffic with integriertem Zeichen 264 - 2-lane to the left road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the 515-11 - Lane shift board - without oncoming traffic with integriertem Zeichen 264 - 2-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 does German road sign 515-11 mean?

Sign 515-11, a 'Lane Shift Board', indicates that traffic lanes are being shifted or diverted, usually in preparation for roadworks or lane closures. The 'without oncoming traffic' part specifies the layout, and the integrated symbol shows the lane change direction, in this case, two lanes shifting to the left. You must adapt your position and speed early.

How should I react when I see sign 515-11?

When you encounter sign 515-11, you need to recognise the upcoming lane change or diversion early. It's crucial to select the correct lane well before the actual shift point, reduce your speed to match the new traffic flow, and pay close attention to temporary road markings, cones, or barriers that guide the diversion.

What is the purpose of the 'integrated sign 264' in sign 515-11?

The 'integrated sign 264' in 515-11 specifically refers to a symbol that shows how lanes are being shifted, narrowed, or merged. In this variant, it indicates a two-lane shift to the left. This symbol is key to understanding the required lane change before you reach the affected area.

What are common exam traps related to lane shift boards like 515-11?

A common trap is reacting too late. Learners might wait until the last moment to change lanes, leading to sudden manoeuvres or blocking traffic. Always anticipate the lane shift shown by sign 515-11 and adjust your position smoothly and early, following all temporary guidance.

Does sign 515-11 always mean I must change lanes?

Sign 515-11 indicates a change in the lane layout. While it doesn't force you to move if you're already in the correct lane for the diversion, it strongly advises you to follow the indicated path. You must not remain in a lane that is shown as ending or diverted by the sign's diagram.

515-11 - Lane shift board - without oncoming traffic with integriertem Zeichen 264 - 2-lane to the left road sign image

A clear reference image of the 515-11 - Lane shift board - without oncoming traffic with integriertem Zeichen 264 - 2-lane to the left road sign used in Germany.

515-11 - Lane shift board - without oncoming traffic with integriertem Zeichen 264 - 2-lane to the left road sign

Other names for the 515-11 - Lane shift board - without oncoming traffic with integriertem Zeichen 264 - 2-lane to the left

The 515-11 - Lane shift board - without oncoming traffic with integriertem Zeichen 264 - 2-lane to the left road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

German road sign 515-11German traffic sign 515-11StVO sign 515-11Lane shift board - without oncoming traffic with integriertem Zeichen 264 - 2-lane to the left signVerschwenkungstafel - ohne Gegenverkehr mit integriertem Zeichen 264 - 2-streifig nach linkstraffic control boards 515-11

German Traffic Control Boards road sign category

The 515-11 - Lane shift board - without oncoming traffic with integriertem Zeichen 264 - 2-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 Road Sign Knowledge

Reviewing signs like the Lane shift board alongside others helps cement recognition and reduce theory test errors. Comparing these visual cues aids in mastering traffic sign recognition for your German driving theory exam.

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