Driving guides/Yellow and white road markings, explained
Yellow and white road markings, explained
Yellow lines separate traffic travelling in opposite directions and white lines separate lanes going the same way. Solid lines should not be crossed, except to turn, and broken lines may be crossed when it is safe; a double solid yellow centre line means no passing from either side.
Permit tests ask what each combination of colour and line means, above all when you may pass. Remember: you may pass only when the broken yellow line is on your side.
Colour and pattern
| Marking | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Yellow line | Separates traffic going in opposite directions. Also marks the left edge of divided highways, one-way streets and ramps. |
| White line | Separates lanes of traffic going the same direction. A solid white line also marks the right edge of the road. |
| Broken line (either colour) | May be crossed when it is safe. |
| Solid line (either colour) | Do not cross, except to make a turn. |
| Single broken yellow centre line | Two-way road: passing is allowed in either direction when it is safe. |
| Double solid yellow centre line | No passing in either direction. |
| Solid yellow beside broken yellow | Pass only if the broken line is on your side of the road. If the solid line is on your side, do not pass. |
| Dotted white lines | Lane guides through intersections and interchanges; they also mark where turn and entry or exit lanes open. |
| White stop line | Where to stop at a stop sign or traffic signal. |
Passing rules in one line
Look at the line on your side of the car. A broken yellow line on your side means you may pass when it is safe and there is room; a solid yellow line on your side means you may not. Ohio's manual states the same rule for two-lane, two-way roads.
Special lane markings
- Pavement markings also show special lane use, such as turn-only lanes and, in some states, reserved lanes marked with white diamonds.
- If a road has no markings at all, Virginia's manual says you may pass a slow vehicle on the left when no sign prohibits it and the way is clear.
Related road signs
Keep reading
Common questions
Two solid yellow lines down the centre of a two-way road mean no passing in either direction, even when no sign says so.
Generally no. Pennsylvania's manual says broken lines can be crossed and solid lines cannot, except when making a turn. A solid white line separates same-direction lanes or marks the right edge of the road.
Yellow lines divide traffic going in opposite directions; white lines divide lanes going the same way.
When the line on your side is broken, the road ahead is clear, and passing is otherwise legal. A solid yellow line on your side means no passing.
All driving guides Practice your state’s permit test free
Sources, checked 2026-10-08: Pennsylvania Driver's Manual (PUB 95), Chapter 2: Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; Virginia Driver's Manual (April 2026); Ohio Digest of Motor Vehicle Laws; New Jersey Driver Manual (rev. 09/25). Written in our own words; follow your state’s manual for the exact wording and numbers.