A device for switching activation of a hydraulic valve play equalization element for setting of a maximal stroke or a zero stroke on a valve of an internal combustion engine, has a switching element for locking and unlocking the housing of the valve play equalization element relative to a guide that is axially displaceable therein. The switching element is a switching ring that surrounds the housing, on which a linkage for rotating the switching ring relative to the housing is disposed. The linkage of the switching ring is connected via a guide element with a groove on the circumference of a rotatable adjustment shaft. The groove has a groove section demonstrating an axial incline, and in which the switching ring is rotated, to implement a switching process via the guide element during rotation the adjustment shaft.