Unlike in much of the US, turning right on red is not a general rule in Germany. You may only do it where a small metal sign with a green arrow on a black background is fixed to the right of the red light. Even then, § 37 StVO requires you to stop completely first, turn only from the right-hand lane and make sure you neither obstruct nor endanger anyone – especially pedestrians and cyclists who have a green light.
Many newcomers confuse this sign with a green arrow that lights up inside the traffic light. They mean different things, and the German theory test likes to ask about the difference.
How to use the green arrow sign
- 1Stop completely at the stop line, even if the road is empty.
- 2Make sure you are in the right-hand lane.
- 3Look for pedestrians and cyclists crossing on green in the direction you are turning into.
- 4Check cross traffic from the left, which has a green light.
- 5Turn only when you can do so without obstructing anyone. If in doubt, wait for green.
Green arrow sign vs. lit green arrow
- Metal sign with a green arrow next to the red light: right turn allowed after stopping, with full caution.
- Green arrow lit up inside the traffic light: that direction has a green light. No stop is required, but watch for pedestrians and cyclists if their crossing is not separately stopped.
- Green arrow sign with a bicycle symbol: applies only to cyclists, not to cars.
Fines
Turning without stopping first costs €70 and 1 point in the Flensburg register under the German fines catalogue; obstructing or endangering others costs more. During the probationary period it also counts as a serious (A) offence, which means a mandatory course and a probation extended to four years.
Practise traffic-light junctions
- 1
Read the signals
Light, arrow or sign – work out what controls the junction.
- 2
Count everyone
Include pedestrians and cyclists at the crossing.
- 3
Check the result
The animation shows the correct order with the rule.
Free to download on iPhone & iPad
Official sources
Frequently asked questions
Can you turn right on red in Germany?
Only where a green arrow sign is mounted next to the red light, and only after stopping completely.
Do I have to stop at a green arrow sign?
Yes. A full stop at the stop line is mandatory before turning.
What is the fine for not stopping at a green arrow?
€70 and 1 penalty point, more if someone is obstructed or endangered.
Does the green arrow apply to the middle lane?
No. Only vehicles in the right-hand lane may turn on the green arrow sign.
How can I practise German traffic-light rules?
With Fahrschule 3D: Vorfahrt üben for iPhone, which is available in English: https://apps.apple.com/app/id6794609450