What’s the Difference Between the “No Motor Vehicles” Sign and the “No Motorcycles” Sign?

What’s the Difference Between the “No Motor Vehicles” Sign and the “No Motorcycles” Sign?

One of the most common mix-ups we see with learner drivers (and even trainee driving instructors) is between the “No Motor Vehicles” sign and the “No Motorcycles” sign. On paper they look similar, but on the road they mean two very different things — and getting it wrong in your theory test, or worse, in real life, could lead to penalties.

Let’s break it down in plain English.

The “No Motor Vehicles” Sign

No Motor Vehicles
  • What it looks like: A red circle with a car above a motorbike inside.
  • What it means: No motor vehicles are allowed past this point. That includes:
    • Cars
    • Motorbikes
    • Vans
    • Lorries
    • Buses
    • Basically, anything powered by an engine.

The only time you might still be allowed through is if there’s an extra plate underneath the sign, saying something like “Except for access” or “Except permit holders.” Without that, it’s a total ban.

Think of it as a blanket ban on all motorised traffic.

The “No Motorcycles” Sign

What’s the Difference Between the “No Motor Vehicles” Sign and the “No Motorcycles” Sign?
  • What it looks like: A red circle with just a motorbike inside.
  • What it means: Motorcycles are not allowed, but cars and other vehicles can still pass through.

You’ll often find this sign in places where motorbikes are considered a particular nuisance or risk — for example, quiet residential cut-throughs or certain park roads.

This one is a targeted ban, aimed purely at motorcycles.

A Simple Way to Remember

Here’s a quick memory trick you can share with pupils:

  • Two vehicles in the sign? → That means no motor vehicles at all.
  • Just one motorbike? → That means only motorbikes are banned.

Easy.

Why It Matters

Mixing these up might not just cost you a theory test question — it could land you with a fine or penalty points if you disobey the restriction in real life. For instructors, it’s one of those golden “teachable moments”: a chance to help learners see how road signs don’t just test memory, but also protect communities and manage traffic fairly.

Final Thought:
The Highway Code is full of signs that look alike but carry very different rules. Understanding the difference between “No Motor Vehicles” and “No Motorcycles” is a small step that can make a big difference on your test — and on the road.