In the late '80s and early '90s, Germany overhauled its traffic signs to more closely conform to European standards. Almost every sign was changed in some way. Most of the changes were minor and involved updating the symbol from an older, more detailed one to a newer, "generic" one. Some signs were completely changed and several new signs were added. Below is a selection of signs that got major facelifts and well as a few that are representitive of the minor changes made to all signs. This page is provided for drivers who may come across a few of the older signs, but is mainly for those with an interest in signs or graphic arts.

OLD SIGN	NEW SIGN	NOTES
		A new sign was added to replace the combination of older signs.
		Here is an example of the symbol streamlining. The detail on the people symbols on older signs was dropped. In this example, the new worker features no hat or feet.
		This sign shows a rather drastic redesign. The detail was removed from the kids making them genderless. Also, the small child is leading the bigger one on the new sign.
		New bikes in Germany ride themselves. :-)
		Probably one of the most radical changes. Of course, steam trains are not widespread in Germany these days, so the sign now reflects the modern version.
		Arrows on all German traffic signs changed from the old filled arrowhead to the new open arrowhead as shown here.
		Another example of the symbol streamlining. Details such as hair and feet were removed from the new signs.
		There used to be separate signs for bus and streetcar stops. The old sign here was for a bus stop. It was eliminated and now the sign on the right (which used to be used just for streetcar stops) is used for both.
		Vehicle symbols were also streamlined.
		The "km" was dropped from speed limit signs.
		All of the long rectangular blue signs (Expressway, Autobahn, and services) were reduced to a square. Again, the symbols were streamlined.
		The pedestrian no longer has a hat, hands, or feet.
		A great example combining the changes mentioned in the two examples above.
		Unfortunately, you can't see the detail so well on these, but the changes are significant. The crossing guard no longer has a hat or sash. The children in the background changed just like those on the "children" sign above. Even the wording was changed from "Schülerlotsen" to "Verkehrshelfer".
		Instead of a range for a suggested speed limit, a single number is given. Also, the "km" was removed (like the speed limit sign above.)

Home : Driving in Germany : Signs & Signals

Getting Around Germany links

© This page and all of its contents are Copyright 2002 by Brian K. Purcell

NOTICE: The information contained on this site is provided "as-is". Although I make reasonable efforts to keep it updated, I make no guarantee regarding accuracy and assume no responsibility for inconveniences or other issues arising from its use. All opinions expressed are strictly my own.