---
title: "Cycle route direction sign Meaning | UK Road Signs"
url: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/theory/road-signs/cycle-route-direction-sign
description: "What cycle route direction signs show, how distances are given, and how the theory test covers cycling signage."
lang: en
---

# Cycle route direction sign — UK road sign

A blue sign with a cycle symbol and a distance, guiding riders along a signed cycle route.

Image: Cycle route direction sign — blue and white rectangle UK road sign (https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/signs/cycle-route-direction-sign.svg)

Cycle route direction signs are blue with white text, a cycle symbol and an arrow. They guide riders along local and national routes that often mix quiet roads with traffic-free paths.

Distances are usually given in miles, sometimes with a journey time for the whole leg.

## What this sign means

The arrow shows the direction of the cycle route and the text gives the destination and distance.

A red route number in a small panel indicates a National Cycle Network route.

## What to do when you see it

Riders follow the arrow. Drivers should read the sign as a warning that cyclists will turn here.

- Expect riders to change direction at the sign.
- Give room to a cyclist who is looking behind before turning.
- Do not park in front of the sign or across the route entrance.
- Watch for riders crossing the road to reach the route.

## How this sign is tested

Questions test the difference between guidance signing for cyclists and mandatory blue circular cycle signs.

The rectangle gives directions. The circle gives an order.

## Common mistakes

Assuming any blue cycle sign compels cyclists to leave the road.

Overtaking a cyclist just as they reach a signed turning.

## Test yourself on this one

Road and traffic signs is the biggest category in the question bank with 102 questions, and signs turn up inside other categories too. Work through them free, no sign-up needed.

Practise road sign questions (https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/theory/practice)

## Frequently asked questions

Are cycle route distances in miles?

Yes, normally in miles, sometimes with a rough journey time.

What is the red route number?

It identifies a National Cycle Network route.

Must cyclists follow the signed route?

No. It is guidance, not an instruction.

## Passed your theory? Get the practical booked

Your theory certificate lasts two years. Most learners who use it quickly do it with an intensive course — a block of hours with a DVSA approved instructor and a practical test at the end, instead of one lesson a week for months.

Intensive course prices: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/pricing
All courses: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/courses
Crash courses: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/crash-courses
Automatic lessons: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/driving-lessons/automatic
Areas we cover: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/driving-lessons-in
Driving test centres: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/driving-test-centres
How it works: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/how-it-works
Test pass guarantee: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/test-pass-guarantee

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