SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/drive-dotted-lane-line

Your lane line changes from long dashes to short, closely spaced dots. What is it warning you about?

A change in your lane ahead, such as an exit-only or ending lane.

  1. A no-passing zone begins
  2. Your lane will change ahead ✔
  3. Lane changes are prohibited

Why: A dotted lane line warns that your lane is about to change, often becoming exit-only or ending. Look at the signs and move over early if you need to.

Huh, didn't know that: Dotted lines are also used to extend lane lines through intersections and interchange ramps to guide you.

The dad joke
The dotted line is just a broken line that's in a hurry.
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References

Answer: Your lane will change ahead. A dotted lane line warns that your lane is about to change, often becoming exit-only or ending. Look at the signs and move over early if you need to.

  1. MUTCD 11th Edition with Revision 1, Section 3A.04 mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/pdfs/11th_Editionr1/mutcd11theditionr1hl.pdf
    A dotted lane line provides warning of a downstream change in lane function.
    Checked 2026-10-09.
  2. MUTCD 11th Edition with Revision 1, Section 3A.04 mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/pdfs/11th_Editionr1/mutcd11theditionr1hl.pdf
    A dotted line used as a lane line or edge line extension guides vehicles through an intersection
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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