Bus laneNetherlands
Traffic rules
Netherlands
1. Bus lane
A bus lane is a traffic lane reserved primarily for buses or other authorised public-transport vehicles. It is intended to improve the reliability and flow of public transport by allowing authorised vehicles to avoid general traffic congestion.
Other road users, such as taxis, cyclists, motorcycles or vehicles carrying several occupants, may also be permitted when signs expressly allow them. The operating hours, permitted vehicles, direction of travel and rules for entering or crossing the lane depend on local traffic signs and regulations.
Which vehicles may use a bus lane in the Netherlands?
On a Dutch bus lane or bus carriageway marked BUS, only buses and trams may drive under the standard rule. Where it says LIJNBUS, the standard rule covers scheduled buses and trams. Other users need a valid exemption or authorisation.
🔗 government.nl • Dutch Government, road rules and signs — RVV articles 23(1)(f), 81
🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • RVV 1990 — official Dutch legislative reference
May bicycles and motorcycles use a bus lane in the Netherlands?
There is no general cycle or motorcycle permission in the BUS or LIJNBUS marking. Check a legally valid exception instead of assuming that another country’s bus-lane rules apply.
🔗 government.nl • Dutch Government, road rules and signs — RVV articles 23(1)(f), 81
🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • RVV 1990 — official Dutch legislative reference
Does bus-lane access also allow stopping or parking in the Netherlands?
Do not treat a bus lane as parking space. The Dutch rules also prohibit stopping on the carriageway alongside a bus lane; read the actual layout and any lawful exception.
🔗 government.nl • Dutch Government, road rules and signs — RVV articles 23(1)(f), 81
🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • RVV 1990 — official Dutch legislative reference
