The Stop Sign – Stopping Is Mandatory
The stop sign is one of the most important traffic signs in road traffic.
It is often underestimated, but it is a classic test and danger point.
There is one very clear rule:
Stopping is mandatory – always.
A “rolling stop” is not sufficient.
What Does the Stop Sign Mean?
The stop sign requires:
- A complete stop of the vehicle
- After stopping: proceed carefully and give way
Important:
Even if no other vehicle is visible, you must still stop.
Where Exactly Do I Have to Stop?
There are three clear situations you must remember:
1. Stop Line Present → Stop at the Stop Line
If there is a white stop line on the road:
- Stop exactly at the line
- Front wheels before the line, not on or over it
Rule to remember:
The stop line overrides everything.
2. No Stop Line → Stop at the Line of Sight
If there is no stop line, you must:
- Stop where you can safely see into the intersection
- Usually just before the intersection, at the edge of the side road
Very important:
You must not simply roll into the intersection to get a better view.
First stop completely, then carefully roll forward if visibility is restricted.
3. No Stop Line and Poor Visibility → Stop Twice
In some situations (e.g. walls, hedges, parked cars):
- First stop where you expect the stop sign
- Roll forward slowly
- Stop a second time at the line of sight
This is correct and safe behavior – not a mistake.
How Long Do You Have to Stop?
- At least 1–2 seconds
- The vehicle must be completely stationary
Examiners look for:
- Wheels clearly not moving
- A clear braking action
Turning your head left and right also clearly shows that you are checking.
Common Mistakes (Very Relevant for the Test)
- Only slowing down instead of stopping
- Stopping after the stop line
- Driving directly into the intersection
- Stopping but not checking traffic
Any of these mistakes can lead to failing the driving test.
Summary – What You Must Remember
- Stop sign = always stop
- With stop line → stop at the line
- Without stop line → stop at the line of sight
- First stop, then look, then drive
Test Reminder
“Stop means standstill –
not slow, but zero.”
