SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/drive-broken-yellow-passing

On a two-lane road, a broken yellow line is on your side of the center. What does it allow?

Passing is allowed when it is safe.

  1. You may pass when it is safe ✔
  2. No passing at any time
  3. Passing is allowed only in daylight

Why: A broken yellow line next to your lane means you may pass when the way is clear. A solid yellow line on your side means do not pass.

Huh, didn't know that: In the national manual, a broken line means permissive and a solid line discourages or prohibits crossing.

The dad joke
The dashed line never finishes its sentences. It just leaves gaps.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: You may pass when it is safe. A broken yellow line next to your lane means you may pass when the way is clear. A solid yellow line on your side means do not pass.

  1. California Driver's Handbook, Section 6 www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/handbook/california-driver-handbook/navigating-the-roads
    A broken yellow line indicates you may pass if the broken line is next to your driving lane. Only pass when it is safe.
    Checked 2026-10-09.
  2. MUTCD 11th Edition with Revision 1, Section 3A.04 mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/pdfs/11th_Editionr1/mutcd11theditionr1hl.pdf
    A solid line discourages or prohibits crossing (depending on the specific application). C. A broken line indicates a permissive condition.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Cars & DrivingTwo solid yellow lines down the middle of the road mean what?Cars & DrivingOn a multilane road, what is the far-left lane mainly for?Cars & DrivingMay you pass near a hill when you cannot see oncoming traffic?

That's stuff everyone should know.