An information sign
Bus lane
A bus lane is reserved for buses (and sometimes taxis, cycles and motorbikes) during the hours shown on the sign. Drive in it during those hours and you can be fined.
01
What it means
You may only drive or stop in a bus lane during its hours of operation, which are printed on the blue bus-lane sign. Outside those hours it's usually open to all traffic. The sign also shows which other vehicles may use it - buses always, and often taxis, pedal cycles and solo motorcycles, but only if they're shown. Always read the sign, because it varies from lane to lane.
02
Where you'll see it
Main roads into and across town, especially in London where bus lanes are dense and camera-enforced. The hours can change along a single road, so a lane that's free now may be restricted a few hundred metres on.
03
On your driving test
On the driving test, straying into a bus lane during its operating hours, or using it to undertake other traffic, is a fault. Know the sign, stay out during the hours shown, and only cross a bus lane where its line becomes dashed.
Fines and penalties
Driving in a bus lane during its hours is camera-enforced as a civil penalty (a PCN), not penalty points. In London it's typically £160, reduced to £80 if you pay within 14 days. Outside London, up to £70 (£35 within 21 days) where the council enforces it.
Popping in 'just to turn' or to drop someone off during operating hours still counts, and 'I was only in it briefly' is not a defence.
Quick answers
Can I drive in a bus lane?
Only outside its operating hours (shown on the sign), or if you're a vehicle the sign permits - buses always, and sometimes taxis, cycles and motorbikes. During the hours shown, other traffic must stay out.
How much is a bus lane fine?
It's a civil penalty, not points. In London typically £160 (£80 if paid within 14 days); outside London up to £70 (£35 within 21 days) where enforced.
Can I use a bus lane to turn left?
Only where the road markings allow it - the solid line becomes dashed near the junction. Entering during operating hours where the line is solid can still be fined.
Rules and meanings from the Highway Code (gov.uk).
Last updated:
Start with a first lesson.