This 'All three lanes closed' motorway signal (code 6006.2) is a crucial traffic management message displayed on overhead gantries or alongside the carriageway. It indicates that all lanes ahead are shut, often due to incidents, roadworks, or hazardous conditions. Drivers must obey these signals promptly, reducing speed smoothly and checking mirrors before changing lanes, and never enter a lane marked with a red X.
Mastering the 'All three lanes closed' signal is vital for safe motorway driving in Great Britain. Proper interpretation aids in theory test revision and ensures you can react correctly to critical traffic management instructions.
Motorway signals are live controls used to manage traffic, incidents, queues, lane closures, weather, and temporary restrictions. This signal applies to the lane, carriageway, or movement indicated by its position and display. Drivers should obey it promptly, check mirrors before slowing or moving lanes, and expect conditions ahead to differ from the normal motorway layout. It is listed in the catalogue as code 6006.2.
"All three lanes closed" is a motorway signal message or lane-control instruction. It may warn of changing conditions, control speed, close lanes, or direct traffic to leave the motorway.
Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the 6006.2 - All three lanes closed road sign. Learn how the sign works, what rules it represents, and how it affects real driving situations. This FAQ strengthens your understanding and supports accurate decision making for the British driving theory exam in Great Britain.
The 'All three lanes closed' signal (code 6006.2) means that all lanes of the motorway ahead are temporarily closed. This is a live control and can appear suddenly. You must stop following the lane indicated by the signal, which in this case is all of them.
Upon seeing this signal, you must prepare to stop or change lanes to an open one if directed. Reduce your speed smoothly, check your mirrors and blind spots, and be ready for queues or stationary traffic ahead. Never drive in a lane that is closed by a red X.
In the theory test, understanding and obeying motorway signals like 'All three lanes closed' is vital for demonstrating safe driving practice. Failing to react appropriately could lead to an accident, so the test assesses your knowledge of how to respond to these dynamic traffic management systems.
A common mistake is not paying attention to overhead signals or reacting too late. Learners might also brake too harshly instead of slowing smoothly, or attempt to move into a lane that is also displaying a red X. Always look well ahead for signals and signs.
No, if the signal clearly indicates 'All three lanes closed', you must not enter the motorway or proceed in any of the closed lanes. The signal is a direct instruction to cease using that part of the road, usually because of a significant hazard or incident ahead.
A clear reference image of the 6006.2 - All three lanes closed road sign used in Great Britain.

The 6006.2 - All three lanes closed road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The 6006.2 - All three lanes closed road sign is part of the Great Britain Motorway Signals category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.
Understanding the subtle differences between similar road signs is crucial for accurate recognition and fewer errors during your theory test revision. Comparing these official signs helps solidify your knowledge of traffic rules and road markings for confident driving.

Motorway Advisory Speed 50 mph: What this signal means for you.

Motorway Signal: Prepare to Leave at the Next Exit

Motorway Signal: Lanes 2 and 3 Closed Ahead, Use Lane 1 With Caution

Understand the 'End of Temporary Motorway Restrictions' Signal

Understand the 'Both Lanes Closed' motorway signal (6006.4)

Motorway Signal: Lane 2 Closed Ahead, Use Lane 1 With Caution

What to do when you see the 'All Four Lanes Closed' motorway signal

Motorway Signal 6006.7: Lane 1 Closed – Obey Instructions and Proceed with Caution
After reviewing the full list of road signs, challenge yourself with practice questions focused specifically on sign recognition. Reinforce your learning and ensure you're fully prepared to identify and understand all traffic signs on the DVSA theory test.
Browse All GB Road Signs List