The rules outlined below are an overview, please refer to the rule references for more details.

Giving way to buses
In a built-up area you must give way to a bus displaying a Give Way To Buses sign and signalling that it is about to pull out from the kerb into the left lane.

Bus lanes
A bus lane is a special purpose lane for use by public buses.  A bus lane can be identified by bus lane signs at the start of a bus lane.  Public bus is defined in the dictionary of the Road Safety Road Rules 2009.

Driving in a bus lane
Drivers must not drive in a bus lane, except:

• for up to 100 metres when entering or leaving the road.  For example: when turning in or out of a driveway, a service road or to turn at an intersection.
• to overtake a vehicle that is turning right or making a U-turn from the centre of the road.
• when information on the bus lane sign indicates that other vehicles may use the lane.  For example: in a shared bus/bike lane or part-time bus lane with limited hours of operation.
• when it is necessary to avoid an obstruction.  For example: if a broken-down vehicle or fallen branch is blocking the road.
• if they are a driver of a public bus.

Parking or stopping in a bus lane
Public buses and taxis are allowed to stop in a bus lane to pick-up or drop-off passengers.

Drivers may sometimes park in a part-time bus lane outside the hours of operation.  Please check the bus lane sign and parking signs in the area before parking.

Cyclists
Signs at the start of a bus lane indicate if cyclists are allowed to ride in the lane.

Exemptions
Some drivers are exempt from some or all of these rules, including:

• Police, Ambulance, Fire and other emergency vehicles 
• other authorised persons outlined in the road rules.

Rule references
Road Safety Road Rules 2009

• 77 Giving way to Buses
• 154 Bus lanes
• 158 Exceptions to driving in special purpose lanes etc.

183 Bus zones

To look up these rules and check for other related rules, please refer to the Acts and Regulations administered by VicRoads.