Give wayGermany
An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Germany. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.
For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.
24. Give way
A give-way sign requires drivers to allow traffic with priority to proceed before entering, crossing or joining a road. Drivers must reduce speed, observe approaching traffic and stop when necessary.
Unlike a stop sign, a give-way sign does not always require a complete stop. The driver may continue without stopping only when the route is clearly safe and no road user with priority is forced to change speed or direction.
Wikimedia.org • Jo.Fruechtnicht • CC0
What does giving way mean in Germany?
The German sign is called Vorfahrt gewähren. It requires yielding at the junction or entry concerned; a supplementary diagram may identify a priority road that changes direction.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany StVO: §§8–9; Annex 2, sign 205 and priority-route panel
Must you always stop when giving way in Germany?
No. A give-way control requires stopping when necessary to yield or obtain a safe view. A stop sign requires a complete stop even if the road appears empty.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany StVO: §§8–9; Annex 2, sign 205 and priority-route panel
What should you check before proceeding after giving way in Germany?
Wait until the manoeuvre is safe. Check the priority traffic, the view in both directions and enough space to complete the entry. Giving way to one vehicle does not remove duties towards another driver, a cyclist or a pedestrian.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany StVO: §§8–9; Annex 2, sign 205 and priority-route panel

Traffic rules
Germany