RoundaboutGermany
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.
25. Roundabout
A roundabout is a circular road arrangement in which traffic travels around a central island in one designated direction. Vehicles enter and leave through connecting roads, and traffic signs or local rules determine who has priority.
Drivers should reduce speed, choose a suitable lane, observe all road users and signal as required when leaving. The direction of travel, entry priority, lane use and rules for cyclists and pedestrians depend on local traffic signs and regulations.
Wikimedia.org • Bene16 • CC BY-SA
Who has priority at a roundabout in Germany?
At a German Kreisverkehr, circulating traffic has priority when the roundabout sign is displayed beneath the give-way sign. The roundabout sign alone does not establish that priority; ordinary priority rules apply without a different control.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany StVO: §§7(5),8(1a),9; Annex 2, signs 205,215
Mandatory roundabout direction.
English • Traffic sign 215 • Roundabout.
Deutsch • Verkehrszeichen 215 • Kreisverkehr.
🔗 Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Verwaltungsvorschriften-im-internet.de • VzKat, Anhang (Gesamtübersicht)
Image via Commons.wikimedia.org
Erstes Hochladen: Andreas06. Neue erstellt nach den amtlichen Vorgaben durch: Mediatus • Public domain • Source revision 2017-08-21. Wikimedia original unmodified.
How should you choose a roundabout lane in Germany?
Choose your intended exit before entering and follow the lane arrows and destination signs. Keep to the marked route and make any permitted lane change only when safe; having priority over entering traffic does not give you priority to change lanes.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany StVO: §§7(5),8(1a),9; Annex 2, signs 205,215
What should you check when leaving a roundabout in Germany?
At the roundabout-and-give-way sign combination, indicating on entry is prohibited. Signal when leaving and check cyclists and pedestrians crossing your exit. Do not treat an exit signal as permission to cut across another road user.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany StVO: §§7(5),8(1a),9; Annex 2, signs 205,215

Traffic rules
Germany