A plain red ring with a white centre is the strongest prohibition in the sign system. It bans every vehicle, including bicycles.
In pedestrian areas it is usually shown with a plate reading except bicycles being pushed, which allows a cyclist through on foot.
What this sign means
No vehicle may be ridden or driven past the sign. A bicycle may be taken through only if the rider dismounts and pushes it.
Other plates may add exceptions for access or for loading at set times.
What to do when you see it
Treat the ban as absolute unless a plate says otherwise.
- Do not ride or drive any vehicle beyond the sign.
- Dismount and push if you are cycling and the plate allows it.
- Look for a signed alternative route.
- Expect heavy pedestrian use beyond the sign.
How this sign is tested
Questions test that an empty red ring means no vehicles of any kind, which catches candidates who expect a symbol.
The pushed bicycle plate is a favourite distractor.
Common mistakes
Reading a blank red ring as a general warning rather than a total ban.
Riding through a pedestrian area where the plate only allows a bicycle to be pushed.
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
Does the no vehicles sign include bicycles?
Yes. A bicycle is a vehicle, so it is banned unless a plate says otherwise.
Why is the sign empty?
The absence of a symbol is deliberate, showing that no vehicle type is exempt.
Can I push a motorcycle through?
No. The exception applies only to bicycles unless the plate states otherwise.