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Advance direction sign
Advance direction sign for specific types of traffic
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When you see the Zeichen
First check the pictogram shown, because the signposted route applies only to this type of traffic. Follow the indicated route if you belong to this type of traffic and want to use the stated destination or the signposted route. Move into the correct lane in good time, but also pay attention to all lane arrows and mandatory and prohibitory signs.
Rules
- Zeichen 442 announces the direction signs for the type of traffic identified by a pictogram before an intersection or junction.
- Arrows and the route layout show which path this type of traffic should take at the upcoming branch.
- The sign alone neither imposes a speed limit nor regulates Vorfahrt.
- A mandatory direction or prohibition applies only if corresponding mandatory or prohibitory signs, lane markings or traffic lights are also present.
Tips
- Identify early on whether the pictogram applies to your vehicle, then focus on the corresponding arrow.
- Move into the correct lane early without endangering others through abrupt braking or a last-minute lane change.
- At the actual turn-off, look out for further direction signs, because Zeichen 442 only announces the route layout ahead.
- Do not automatically interpret the depiction of a specific type of traffic as a prohibition on passing through for all other vehicles.
Common misunderstandings
- Zeichen 442 is confused with Zeichen 332 or 332.1. These mark an exit, whereas Zeichen 442 indicates an upcoming direction sign for a specific type of traffic.
- Learner drivers apply the arrow to all vehicles, even though it refers only to the type of traffic identified by the pictogram.
- The sign is understood as an independent mandatory or prohibitory sign. Its main purpose, however, is to provide advance guidance; binding restrictions must be ordered separately.
Exam tip
Pay particular attention to the pictogram in exam questions: the indicated route does not automatically apply to all vehicles. Another typical trap is confusing it with an exit sign according to Zeichen 332 or 332.1.
Did you know
Depending on the local traffic layout, Zeichen 442 can be designed with different pictograms and arrow paths. This makes it possible to direct specific types of traffic onto a suitable route before an intersection.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to follow the indicated route?
Zeichen 442 initially serves as a direction sign for the type of traffic shown. A legal obligation arises only through additional mandatory or prohibitory signs, traffic lights or binding lane guidance.
Does Zeichen 442 apply to all vehicles?
No. What matters is the pictogram shown on the sign, which identifies the type of traffic concerned.
Does Zeichen 442 regulate Vorfahrt at the upcoming intersection?
No. Vorfahrt continues to be governed by traffic lights, Vorfahrt signs or, if there are no such regulations, priority to the right.
What is the difference between this and an arrow direction sign?
Zeichen 442 is an advance direction sign placed before the decisive turn and shows its route in advance. An arrow direction sign is typically located directly at the point where the turn should be made.
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