Use this guide to separate the meanings of yellow and white lines, understand when passing is allowed, and recognize lane markings that restrict or direct movement.
QUICK ANSWER
Yellow lines generally separate traffic moving in opposite directions; white lines separate traffic moving in the same direction. A broken yellow line allows passing when the broken line is next to your lane and the maneuver is safe. Double solid white lines are a lane barrier and must not be crossed for a lane change.
STUDY NOTES
Yellow lines: opposite-direction traffic
A single solid yellow line marks the center of a two-way road. If the solid line is on your side and there is only one lane in your direction, do not pass. A broken yellow line indicates that you may pass when the broken line is next to your lane and the pass is safe. Double solid yellow lines prohibit passing, though the handbook lists limited exceptions for certain left turns, U-turns, HOV entrances, or temporary traffic control.
White lines: same-direction traffic
Single solid white lines and broken white lines separate traffic going in the same direction. Double solid white lines create a lane barrier, such as near some HOV lanes or freeway ramps. Wait for a broken white line before changing across that barrier.
Special-use lanes
- Center left-turn lane: use it to prepare for a left turn or U-turn, not as a regular travel or passing lane; DMV limits travel in it to 200 feet.
- Bicycle lane: do not drive in it except for permitted parking, entering or leaving the road, or turning within 200 feet of an intersection.
- HOV lane: use designated openings; do not cross double solid lines to enter or exit.
PRACTICE CHECKS
Check your understanding
Answer each question before opening the explanation.
1. What does a broken yellow line next to your lane mean?
Show answer
Answer: You may pass if it is safe.
DMV says a broken yellow line permits passing when the broken line is next to your driving lane and the pass is safe.
2. May you change lanes across double solid white lines?
Show answer
Answer: No.
The handbook describes double solid white lines as a lane barrier and says to wait for a single broken white line.
3. How far may you travel in a center left-turn lane?
Show answer
Answer: Up to 200 feet.
DMV limits the center left-turn lane to 200 feet of travel while preparing for a left turn or U-turn.
FAQ
Common questions
What is the difference between yellow and white road lines?
Yellow lines generally separate traffic moving in opposite directions. White lines separate lanes moving in the same direction.
Can I cross a double yellow line to turn left into a driveway?
The handbook allows a left turn across a single set of double yellow lines to enter or exit a driveway or private road, when the turn can be made safely.
When may I enter a bicycle lane to make a turn?
DMV says you may drive in a bicycle lane when turning within 200 feet of an intersection, after checking for bicyclists and other hazards.
VERIFY THE RULE
Official source
This study page was reviewed against the DMV material below. Open the source when you want the complete rule, exceptions, or surrounding context.
Last reviewed: August 16, 2026 · Reviewed by Master My Test