Vehicle Parking
The sign indicates how vehicles should be parked
When You See This Sign
When you see T21 you should immediately read the pictogram and adjust your position according to the illustration — choose the correct lane or staging box and stop/place your vehicle exactly as indicated. Follow both the sign's arrows and any supplementary text so that you do not block pedestrian crossings or other vehicles.
Rules & Regulations
- T21 is a supplementary sign that specifies exactly how vehicles must be lined up in a given situation; the instruction on the sign must be followed by the vehicle categories depicted.
- The sign's instructions apply at the location where the sign is posted and for as long as it is valid; failure to comply may lead to fines or other traffic-law penalties.
- T21 often complements a main sign or road marking and specifies positioning in a queue, at a work site, ferry queue, or special queuing arrangement; follow both the main sign and the supplementary sign's pictogram.
- If the sign shows specific vehicle groups (e.g. bus, lorry or bicycle), the instruction applies only to those vehicles; other road users must not use the marked staging positions unless otherwise stated.
Tips for Drivers
- Read the pictogram well before the location so you can choose the correct lane or staging space without sudden lane changes.
- Line up exactly as the picture shows — position yourself centered in the box or lane marking and leave space for the specified vehicles (e.g. buses or emergency vehicles).
- Pay attention to any supplementary text or arrows indicating direction or sequence; follow these to avoid blocking junctions or pedestrian crossings.
- For temporary staging (roadworks, ferry boarding), check whether signage has changed and follow the instructions until you have passed the area.
Common Mistakes
- Interpreting the sign as a general parking sign instead of an instruction for how vehicles should queue or be positioned.
- Assuming the instruction applies to all vehicles when the sign actually depicts a specific vehicle icon (e.g. bus or lorry).
- Failing to take into account arrows or supplementary text on the sign and therefore positioning oneself in the wrong order or direction.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Vehicle Parking
What does this supplementary sign indicate about how vehicles should be positioned?
- A It shows how you should position the vehicle, for example in relation to the curb or within marked spaces.
- B It indicates the maximum parking time for the area.
- C It means parking is prohibited for vehicles over a certain weight.
- D It shows that vehicles must be parked at an angle to the roadway.
Exam Tip
In the theory test you may be asked whether the instruction applies to all vehicles or only to the symbolized vehicles — always check the vehicle icon on the sign. Also remember that a supplementary sign must be followed together with any main sign.
Did You Know?
T21 is often used for temporary traffic arrangements such as roadworks, ferry queues and events requiring clear queuing. The sign was introduced to reduce confusion in complex staging situations by showing exactly where vehicles should stand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does T21 apply even if there is no main sign above it?
Yes. T21 can complement a main sign or be used independently to specify the ordering of staging. The instruction on the sign applies where it is posted regardless of whether a main sign exists.
What do I do if road markings and T21 seem to say different things?
Signs take precedence over road markings, so you should follow T21's instruction. If the situation is unclear, follow traffic control or police instructions on site.
May I leave my vehicle positioned according to T21 for parking?
No. T21 indicates how vehicles should be positioned in a particular situation (e.g. queue or staging lane) but does not automatically mean parking is permitted. Parking is regulated by separate parking signs and rules.
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