A rectangular white sign with red text or a red border stating 'No Entry Except for Access' restricts through-traffic on local streets.
It prevents drivers from using quiet residential roads or narrow side lanes as shortcuts (rat-running) while allowing legitimate local access.
What this sign means
Through-traffic is forbidden from driving down the street.
Vehicles requiring access to properties, premises, or parking locations along the road are legally exempt.
- Rectangular white sign with explicit text restriction.
- Bans through-traffic and rat-running drivers.
- Allows access for residents, deliveries, visitors, and maintenance.
What to do when you see it
If you are seeking access to a property located on that specific street, you may enter cautiously.
If you are simply passing through to another destination, use main alternative roads.
How this sign is tested
Theory test questions test your understanding of 'Except for access' sub-plates and signs.
Questions assess whether you can identify legitimate reasons to enter an access-restricted street.
Common mistakes
Driving through access-only streets as a shortcut to save time, which incurs penalty fines.
Confusing this exception sign with a standard absolute 'No Entry' red disc sign.
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 questionsFrequently asked questions
Can I enter if I am dropping off a friend who lives on the road?
Yes, dropping off or picking up passengers at an address on the road counts as legitimate access.
What counts as 'access'?
Access includes visiting residents, delivering goods, conducting trade work, or entering private driveways.
Is 'No Entry Except Access' the same as a standard No Entry sign?
No, a standard No Entry sign (red disc, white bar) is absolute and carries no access exceptions.