Archive Website of the UK government

Traffic signals

As well as standard traffic signals, there are signals for tram drivers and cyclists. Warning traffic signals that flash are used at level crossings, lifting bridges and fire stations.

• Download 'Traffic signals' (PDF, 43K) Opens new window

• Help with PDF files

Tidal flow lane control signs and signals

On some busy roads, lane control signals are used to change the number of open lanes and give priority to the main traffic flow.

• Download 'Tidal flow lane control signs and signals' (PDF, 49K) Opens new window

• Help with PDF files

Pedestrian, cycle and equestrian crossings

There are crossings for pedestrians only (puffin and pelican crossings), for pedestrians and cyclists (toucan crossings) and for horse riders (equestrian crossings).

• Download 'Pedestrian, cycle and equestrian crossings' (PDF, 139K) Opens new window

• Help with PDF files

Level crossing signs and signals

Warning signs give you advance information about level crossings. There are also signs and signals at the crossing that road users and pedestrians must obey.

• Download 'Level crossing signs and signals' (PDF, 333K) Opens new window

• Help with PDF files

Tram signs, signals and road markings

Trams can run on roads used by other vehicles and pedestrians. Signs and road markings show the tram's route and give warnings, directions and speed limits for the tram driver and other road users.

• Download 'Tram signs, signals and road markings' (PDF, 257K) Opens new window

• Help with PDF files

Bus and cycle signs and road markings

Bus lanes, bus stops and bus parking places have their own signs and road markings. Cyclists can share bus lanes or may have their own signed and marked lanes.

• Download 'Bus and cycle signs and road markings' (PDF, 361K) Opens new window

• Help with PDF files

Direction signs for cyclists and pedestrians

Signs showing cycle routes have a blue background and include a white cycle symbol. They may form part of larger direction sign. Signs for pedestrian routes show a walking figure.

• Download 'Direction signs for cyclists and pedestrians' (PDF, 284K) Opens new window

• Help with PDF files

More useful links

• Download the full 'Know your traffic signs' booklet (PDF, 8999K) Opens new window

• Help with PDF files

• Roadworks, level crossings and tramways: Highway Code rules 288-307

• Cycling

• Highway Code: rules for horse riders and animals