PCV PCV Road Signs & Highway Code 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What does a sign showing a bus and the word 'ONLY' mean on a lane?
- The lane is restricted to buses only at all times (Correct answer)
- Buses must use this lane exclusively on weekdays
- Only articulated buses may use the lane
- Buses must travel faster than 20 mph in this lane
Correct answer: The lane is restricted to buses only at all times
A 'bus only' lane is restricted to buses at all times (unless otherwise indicated by hours on a sign). Other vehicles are not permitted to use the lane. PCV drivers should use these lanes to maintain schedule.
Question 2: What does a red circle with a motorcycle and car symbol inside mean?
- No motorcycles or cars permitted — typically applies to a bus/cycle lane or similar restricted road (Correct answer)
- Motorcycles and cars must travel in convoy
- A designated road for heavy vehicles only
- Motorcycles must overtake cars in this area
Correct answer: No motorcycles or cars permitted — typically applies to a bus/cycle lane or similar restricted road
A red circle containing both a motorcycle and car symbol prohibits those vehicles from using that road or lane. This is common on bus-only roads or pedestrianised streets that have exemptions only for buses.
Question 3: What does a sign showing a coach and the word 'PICK UP' indicate?
- A designated coach pickup and set-down point (Correct answer)
- A coach park entrance
- A coach weigh station
- An emergency pull-in for coaches
Correct answer: A designated coach pickup and set-down point
A coach pickup and set-down sign indicates a designated area where coaches may stop to collect or drop off passengers. PCV drivers should use these designated areas to avoid obstructing traffic.
Question 4: What is the meaning of a blue rectangular sign with the word 'BUS' and a left arrow at a roundabout?
- Buses must use the left route — a mandatory direction for buses (Correct answer)
- Advisory direction for buses turning left
- Buses may overtake at the roundabout
- A bus stop is located to the left
Correct answer: Buses must use the left route — a mandatory direction for buses
Blue rectangular signs with arrows showing directions for specific vehicle types are mandatory instructions. A 'BUS' sign with a left arrow means buses must use the left route at that junction.
Question 5: What does a white rectangular sign reading 'MAX STAY 2 HOURS' mean at a coach park?
- Coaches may park for a maximum of 2 hours — must vacate after that period (Correct answer)
- Coaches must stay at least 2 hours
- 2 hours minimum stay required for coaches
- Free parking for the first 2 hours only
Correct answer: Coaches may park for a maximum of 2 hours — must vacate after that period
A maximum stay sign limits how long a vehicle may be parked. PCV drivers using coach parks must observe time limits and move the vehicle when the allowed period expires.
Question 6: What does a red circle with a number '20' and the word 'ZONE' beneath mean?
- A 20 mph speed limit zone applies to all vehicles including buses (Correct answer)
- Only cars are limited to 20 mph
- Advisory 20 mph speed for buses with passengers
- A school zone with 20 mph limit during term time only
Correct answer: A 20 mph speed limit zone applies to all vehicles including buses
A 20 mph zone sign indicates a mandatory speed limit of 20 mph for all motor vehicles including buses. 20 mph zones are becoming increasingly common in urban areas and near schools. PCV drivers must comply.
PCV PCV Road Signs & Highway Code 3
What does a sign showing a bus and the word 'ONLY' mean on a lane?