A 3-minute lesson from the Massachusetts course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
Painted lines keep traffic in order. The color tells you direction (white: same direction; yellow: opposite directions), and the pattern tells you whether you may cross (broken: with care; solid: generally no).
Know the rule
Lines may be solid or broken (long dashes), single or double. A solid white or yellow line that turns into a dotted line (short dashes) continues through an intersection or highway interchange. Unless turning, exiting or changing lanes, stay between lane lines.
Broken white lines separate lanes moving the same direction
Know the rule
A solid white line marks the right edge of the roadway or separates same-direction lanes, including bicycle lanes. Don't cross it unless you need to avoid danger.
Yellow lines separate traffic moving in opposite directions. A single yellow line may also mark the left edge of the pavement on divided highways and one-way streets.
One solid and one broken yellow line: if the solid line is closer to you, you cannot cross. If the broken line is closer to you, you may cross only to pass another vehicle when it is safe.
The far left lane marked with white diamonds is reserved for HOVs (carpools) or buses
Put it into practice
On a two-lane road you're stuck behind a slow truck. The solid yellow line is on your side and the broken line is on the oncoming side. You may not cross to pass; wait until the broken line is on your side and it's safe.
Check your understanding
Read the question, decide on an answer, then open it to check the explanation. These are Roadwise study questions based on the source handbook.
What does a white line on the pavement generally separate?
Lanes of traffic moving in opposite directions
Lanes of traffic moving in the same direction
A bicycle lane from a bus lane only
A parking lane from a bike lane only
Answer: Lanes of traffic moving in the same direction
White lines separate lanes of traffic traveling in the same direction.
