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Official United States Bus Lane Only Road Sign

Federal MUTCD Specifications

Standard Code
R3-14a
Sign Category
Regulatory
Shape
Vertical Rectangle
Color Scheme
White with Diamond & 'BUSES ONLY' Text

Regulatory Road Sign (R3-14a)

Bus Lane Only Sign Meaning & Driving Rules

Restricts travel in the lane exclusively to public transit buses and emergency vehicles.

Required Driver Action & Right-of-Way Protocol

Stay out of the bus lane. Enter only within the last 100 feet before making a right turn.

Detailed Overview & Purpose

The Bus Lane Only sign (R3-14a) reserves a dedicated lane for mass transit. Passenger vehicles are prohibited from driving in this lane, except when making an immediate right turn within 100–200 feet of an intersection.

Key Standard & Origin: Private vehicles may enter the bus lane ONLY to make an immediate right turn at the next corner.

Where You'll Find This Sign

Urban commercial corridors, downtown avenues, and transit mall streets.

Common Driver Mistakes to Avoid

Driving in the bus lane for multiple blocks to skip heavy traffic queues.

How This Sign Appears on the DMV Knowledge & Road Test

Key urban driving test question: when is a private car allowed to enter a bus lane? (Only to turn right).

Legal Penalties and Moving Violations

Driving in a bus lane carries automated camera fines ($150–$300).

DMV Knowledge Check

When you encounter the official Bus Lane Only (R3-14a) on a roadway, what is your legal duty?

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