When is it legal to pass another car?

Passing another car is only legal when it’s safe and permitted by road markings, signs, and traffic laws. Here’s a breakdown of when it’s legal—and when it’s not:

✅ When It’s Legal to Pass Another Car

✔️ On a Two-Lane Road:

• Broken yellow line on your side: You may pass if it’s safe and there’s no oncoming traffic.
• Both lines broken: Either direction may pass when safe.

✔️ On Highways/Freeways:

• You can pass on the left, and sometimes on the right if the vehicle ahead is turning left or in slower traffic (check local laws).
• Always use your turn signal before changing lanes.

✔️ When There’s a Passing Zone:

• Confirm it’s marked by signs or road lines allowing passing.
• Make sure there’s enough clear distance ahead to safely pass and return to your lane.

❌ When It’s Illegal or Unsafe to Pass

🚫 Solid yellow line on your side

• Passing is not allowed.

🚫 Hills, curves, or blind spots

• Never pass where you can’t see at least several hundred feet ahead.

🚫 Near intersections, crosswalks, bridges, tunnels, or railroad crossings

• These are high-risk areas; passing is often prohibited.

🚫 School zones or areas with pedestrian traffic

• Risk is too high for sudden stops or unpredictable movement.

🚫 In no-passing zones

• Look for posted signs or road markings that explicitly prohibit passing.