How bus lanes work

How to use bus and bus-only lanes

There are two types of bus lanes:

1. Bus lanes can be used by buses, bicycles, motorcycles/scooters, and in-service taxis. All other vehicles can use these lanes briefly (up to 50 metres) to cross through to another lane or turn into another street or driveway.
2. Bus-only lanes can only be used by buses.

Emergency vehicles may use both types of bus lane when responding to an emergency.

Understanding the bus lane signs

See below some examples of bus lane signs explained.

Bus lanes

Bus lane, at all times 

Who can use the bus lane: Buses, bicycles, motorcycles/scooters, and in-service taxis.

When: At all times.

Bus lane, Monday to Friday

Who can use the bus lane: Buses, bicycles, motorcycles/scooters, and in-service taxis.

When: At the times displayed on the sign - for example, from 4pm to 6pm, Monday to Friday. Outside of the times listed, all vehicles can use the lane.

Bus-only lanes

Bus-only, at all times

Who can use the bus lane: Only buses.

When: At all times.

Bus-only, Monday to Friday

Who can use the bus lane: Only buses.

When: At the times displayed on the sign - for example, from 6am to 7pm, Monday to Friday.
Outside of the times listed, all vehicles can use the lane.

Definition of in-service taxi

In-service taxis are taxis carrying fare-paying passengers. If not in-service, taxis should not use the bus lane. This includes commercial small passenger service vehicles (such as Uber).