Straight ahead or right (Zeichen 214)

Straight ahead or right

Mandatory signs Zeichen 214

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When you see the Zeichen

At the relevant intersection or junction, you may only drive straight ahead or turn right. Turning left and making a U-turn are not permitted there; when turning right, you must signal in good time and watch out for other road users.

Rules

  • The sign prescribes two permitted directions of travel: straight ahead or right.
  • Turning left is prohibited.
  • Making a U-turn is also not permitted because it does not correspond to either of the indicated directions of travel.
  • The sign does not regulate Vorfahrt; traffic lights, Vorfahrt signs and the general Vorfahrt rules continue to apply.
  • When turning right, the turning rules apply in particular: use your direction indicator and watch out for cyclists and pedestrians travelling straight ahead.

Tips

  • Move into a lane early enough from which you may drive straight ahead or turn right.
  • If you want to travel to the left, plan a different route in good time instead of making a risky lane change just before the sign.
  • Check whether the sign, due to its positioning or lane assignment, applies only to a specific lane.
  • When turning right, pay particular attention to the area on your right for cyclists and pedestrians.

Common misunderstandings

  • !Some learner drivers believe they must turn right. In fact, they may also drive straight ahead.
  • !The sign is confused with a Vorfahrt sign. It only specifies the permitted direction of travel and does not grant Vorfahrt.
  • !Some people think making a U-turn is permitted because it is not explicitly shown. However, only the two directions indicated by the arrows are permitted.

Exam tip

In theory-test questions, the typical trap is interpreting the sign as requiring you to turn right only. Remember both arrows: you can choose between going straight ahead and turning right, but not between all directions of travel.

Did you know

Zeichen 214 belongs to the group of round blue mandatory signs prescribing directions of travel. It is often used when turning left is to be ruled out for traffic-management or safety reasons, while driving straight ahead and turning right remain possible.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to turn right at Zeichen 214?

No. You may either continue straight ahead or turn right.

May I turn left or make a U-turn at this point?

No. Neither manoeuvre corresponds to one of the prescribed arrow directions, so both are prohibited.

Do I have Vorfahrt when turning right because of the sign?

No. Zeichen 214 only regulates the direction of travel; Vorfahrt is determined by traffic lights, Vorfahrt signs or the general rules.

What is the difference between Zeichen 214 and Zeichen 209 „Rechts“?

Zeichen 209 prescribes travelling to the right only. Zeichen 214, on the other hand, permits both driving straight ahead and turning right.

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