New York DMV Permit Written TestRoad SignsMedium

You are driving on a two-lane road. You notice a solid yellow line on your side of the center line, with a broken yellow line on the other side. What does this pavement marking mean for your vehicle?

  1. AYou may not pass, but oncoming traffic may if the way is clear.
  2. BYou may pass if the way is clear, but oncoming traffic may not.
  3. CNeither you nor oncoming traffic may pass.
  4. DYou should prepare to turn left or right.
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: A. You may not pass, but oncoming traffic may if the way is clear.

A solid yellow line on your side of the center line indicates that passing is prohibited for traffic in your direction. A broken yellow line on the other side means that oncoming traffic may pass when it is safe to do so.

Why the other options are wrong

  • B. This is incorrect; a solid yellow line on your side prohibits passing.
  • C. This would be indicated by solid double yellow lines.
  • D. Turning indications are usually arrows or specific lane markings.

Solid Yellow/Broken Yellow Lines

A solid yellow line on your side of the center indicates no passing for your lane; a broken yellow line on the other side indicates that oncoming traffic may pass.

  • Solid line: no passing.
  • Broken line: passing permitted if safe.
  • Lines regulate passing based on direction of travel.

Memory trick: Yellow lines divide traffic, solid means 'stay put,' broken means 'pass if you can.'

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