Turn on redGermany
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.
106. Turn on red
Turn on red is a traffic rule or signal arrangement that allows certain road users to proceed in a specified direction despite a red traffic light. It most commonly permits a turn after the driver has stopped or yielded, but the exact procedure varies between countries.
A turn on red is not universally permitted. It may be allowed generally, only when a specific sign or signal is present, or prohibited entirely. Drivers must always follow the local traffic lights, signs, priority rules and pedestrian or cyclist crossings before proceeding.
Wikimedia.org • JoachimKohler-HB • CC BY-SA
Can motorists turn right at a red light in Germany?
Only under an applicable exception, such as a fixed green-arrow sign (Grünpfeil) beside the red signal. A driver must first stop, turn from the permitted lane and ensure that no other road user is obstructed or endangered. A red light without such permission still means stop.
Does every German green-arrow sign apply to cars?
No. Germany also has a green-arrow sign specifically for cyclists. Its permission is restricted to the indicated road-user category; a motorist must not treat a bicycle-only arrow as permission to turn on red.

Traffic rules
Germany