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Bus laneWorldwide

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Worldwide. 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.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
Worldwide

25. Bus lane

A bus lane is a traffic lane reserved primarily for buses or other authorised public-transport vehicles. It is intended to improve the reliability and flow of public transport by allowing authorised vehicles to avoid general traffic congestion.

Other road users, such as taxis, cyclists, motorcycles or vehicles carrying several occupants, may also be permitted when signs expressly allow them. The operating hours, permitted vehicles, direction of travel and rules for entering or crossing the lane depend on local traffic signs and regulations.

Lane for buses. (Haute-Savoie, France)
Wikimedia.org • Marc Mongenet • CC BY-SA
What is a bus lane?

A bus lane is a lane reserved primarily for buses or other authorised public-transport vehicles. Its purpose is to help public transport move efficiently through traffic.

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 141–143; national guidance example

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 223; national guidance example

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, Article 26 bis and Annex 1, section E II.2; sign-system reference

May cyclists use a bus lane?

Cyclists may use a bus lane where signs or local law permit them. They should remain alert for large vehicles, stops, passengers and buses moving towards the kerb.

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 141–143; national guidance example

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 223; national guidance example

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, Article 26 bis and Annex 1, section E II.2; sign-system reference

Does a bus lane have a special speed limit?

Not necessarily. The normal road or posted speed limit generally applies unless a separate restriction is displayed.

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 141–143; national guidance example

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 223; national guidance example

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, Article 26 bis and Annex 1, section E II.2; sign-system reference

May you stop or park in a bus lane?

Check the local stopping and parking rules, lane operating times, signs and any applicable exemptions. Do not assume that permission to drive in a bus lane also permits stopping or parking there. A stopped vehicle can obstruct buses and other authorised users.

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 141–143; national guidance example

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 223; national guidance example

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, Article 26 bis and Annex 1, section E II.2; sign-system reference

How does a bus lane end?

It may end at a sign, a change in road markings, an intersection or the end of its stated operating period. Drivers should follow the lane arrows and merge safely where required.

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 141–143; national guidance example

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 223; national guidance example

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, Article 26 bis and Annex 1, section E II.2; sign-system reference

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