Bus lanes

Bus lanes are intended to reduce journey times for buses along main routes, particularly at peak times. Bus lanes are only installed on major corridor routes into and out of the city centre.

The bus gate at monument bridge is a totally separate item as it prohibits general traffic all day every day.

Who can use an active bus lane

During operational hours, only the following vehicles are permitted to use bus lanes –

  • bicycles
  • any bus or vehicle with seats to carry ten people including the driver
  • livered emergency service vehicles
  • solo 2 wheeled motorcycles
  • hackney carriage or licensed private hire vehicle

Our system should recognise taxis and private hire vehicles licensed in Hull and East Riding of Yorkshire. If you have a private hire licence which has been registered outside of Hull and East Riding of Yorkshire, you must complete the form by clicking the button below to register for bus lane use in Hull.

Register private hire licence for bus lane use

Vehicles registered elsewhere may be issued with a penalty notice if this form is not completed. In this situation, owners should appeal and present proof that the vehicle is licensed.

Other vehicles making use of bus lanes during operational times will be subject to a penalty charge.

Identifying a bus lane

Bus lanes are divided from the remaining carriageway by a solid thick white line and the words ‘Bus Lane’ are periodically marked on the road. The approach to a bus lane and after every junction is covered by appropriate signs and road markings as described in the Highway Code. Blue bus lane signs are also present alongside the bus lane.

When you can use a bus lane

Any vehicle can use a bus lane outside of the operational hours. You are also permitted to cross a bus lane where necessary provided you do so in the shortest possible distance. You must not use a bus lane to avoid traffic and reach your location.

In addition, there are instances when you may have no other choice but to move into a bus lane for example to -

  • avoid an obstruction in the road, such as roadwork or a spillage
  • make way for an emergency services vehicle
  • avoid an accident

If you have to move into a bus lane, do so only for as long as is required.

Carr Lane Bus Gate operational times are 24 hours a day 7 days a week. This has the same vehicle authorisation as all bus lanes.