A 3-minute lesson from the New York course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
Passing on the right is allowed only in a few situations, and only when necessary and safe, because other drivers don't expect it. When someone is passing you, your job is to make it easy for them.
Know the rule
You may pass on the right only in the conditions below, and only if you can do it safely.
Passing on the right at an intersection: check traffic ahead so an approaching vehicle isn't about to turn left into your path, and watch the right side for pedestrians, bicyclists, in-line skaters and moped riders.
When a vehicle passes you on the left, slow down slightly and stay centered in your lane. Once it has safely passed and is ahead of you, continue at your normal speed.
The car ahead of you stops with its left signal on, waiting to turn into a driveway. If there's room on the pavement to its right, not the shoulder, you may pass on the right carefully, watching for pedestrians and cyclists.
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.
Under what condition can you legally pass another vehicle on the right?
Whenever the right lane looks empty
Anytime traffic is moving slowly
When the car ahead turns left
On a shoulder, if marked or not
Answer: When the car ahead turns left
You can pass on the right when a vehicle ahead is making a left turn, among other listed conditions.
Under what condition can you legally pass on the right on a two-way road?
When it has two or more lanes your way
When the car ahead is at the speed limit
Whenever the right shoulder is paved
Only in business districts
Answer: When it has two or more lanes your way
You may pass on the right on a two-way road marked or wide enough for two or more lanes in your direction, if signs, parked cars or obstructions don't restrict it.