Turn prohibitionGermany
Traffic rules
Germany
1. Turn prohibition
A turn prohibition prevents drivers from turning in the direction indicated by a traffic sign. It may prohibit a left turn, a right turn or a U-turn at an intersection or along a specified section of road.
Drivers must continue along a permitted route and follow any lane arrows or mandatory-direction signs. A turn prohibition does not itself determine priority or speed, and any exemption for cyclists, public transport or other road users must be expressly indicated.
How is a turn prohibition indicated in Germany?
German regulatory signs and prescribed directions can restrict turning at a junction. Read the installed prohibition or mandatory-direction sign and any supplementary panel applying to that movement.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany StVO: §§9,39(3); Annex 2, mandatory-direction signs and sign 272
Does a no-left-turn sign always prohibit a U-turn in Germany?
Read the permitted directions shown by the actual German signs. A mandatory arrow allows only the displayed direction or directions; do not infer permission to make a U-turn from the absence of a separate turning-ban sign. The separate no-U-turn sign also prohibits that manoeuvre, and every permitted U-turn must avoid endangering others.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany StVO: §§9,39(3); Annex 2, mandatory-direction signs and sign 272
Can a no-turn restriction apply only to certain vehicles or hours in Germany?
Yes, where the local sign system provides a supplementary condition or exemption, such as a vehicle class, time or authorised access. Without a valid exception, comply with the prohibited movement shown.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany StVO: §§9,39(3); Annex 2, mandatory-direction signs and sign 272
