---
title: "Public footpath sign Meaning | UK Road Signs | Fast Track"
url: https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/theory/road-signs/public-footpath-sign
description: "What a public footpath sign tells drivers, why it signals pedestrians ahead, and how it relates to the theory test."
lang: en
---

# Public footpath sign — UK road sign

A fingerpost marking a right of way for walkers, often where a path meets a rural road.

Image: Public footpath sign — white and black fingerpost UK road sign (https://fasttrackdrivinglessons.co.uk/signs/public-footpath-sign.svg)

Public footpath fingerposts mark where a right of way crosses or meets the road. On country lanes they are the best warning you will get that walkers are about to step out.

Footpaths are for walkers only. Bridleways also allow horses and cycles.

## What this sign means

A right of way for pedestrians starts, ends or crosses here.

There is rarely a formal crossing point, so people cross wherever the path meets the road.

## What to do when you see it

Ease off and scan both verges.

- Slow down where a path meets a bend or a blind summit.
- Look for dogs and children ahead of the adults.
- Be ready to stop if a group is crossing.
- Do not park across the path entrance.

## How this sign is tested

Rural pedestrian hazards are tested in both the multiple-choice and hazard perception parts of the theory test.

## Common mistakes

Keeping full speed on a lane because pedestrians are not expected there.

Confusing footpaths with bridleways and not anticipating horses.

## 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

Can cyclists use a public footpath?

No. Footpaths are for walkers. Bridleways permit cycles and horses.

Do walkers have priority crossing the road?

There is no formal priority, but drivers must drive so they can stop safely.

Where should walkers walk on a lane?

Facing oncoming traffic, on the right hand side.

## 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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