Section 6: Navigating the Roads - California DMV

Traffic Lanes

• Definition: A traffic lane is a section of road for a single line of traffic.

Lane Markings

• Purpose: Indicate which part of the road to use and traffic rules.

Yellow Lines

• Single Solid Yellow Line: Marks the center on two-way traffic roads; do not pass if on your side.
• Double Solid Yellow Lines: No passing; exceptions include entering HOV lanes, directed by signs, or turning left where allowed.
• Broken Yellow Line: May pass if next to your lane and safe.

White Lines

• Single Solid White Line: Marks lanes in the same direction, including one-way streets.
• Double Solid White Lines: Lane barrier between regular and preferential lanes; do not cross.
• Broken White Lines: Separate lanes moving in the same direction.

End of Lane Markings

• Indicated by large broken lines; prepare for lane endings or exits.

Yield Line

• Solid white triangles showing where to yield or stop.

Choosing a Lane

• Numbered Lanes: Left (fast) lane is No.1, right lanes are No.2, etc.
• Tips: Use the left lane for passing or turning left; right lane for entering/exiting traffic.

Changing Lanes

• Steps: Signal, check mirrors, check blind spots, ensure space for your vehicle.
• Cautions: Avoid drifting, weaving, and last-minute changes.

Types of Lanes

Passing Lanes

• Purpose: Far left lane, used for passing.

Carpool/HOV Lanes

• Usage: Reserved for carpools, buses, motorcycles, or low-emission vehicles.
• Markings: Diamond symbol and "Carpool Lane" text.

Center Left Turn Lanes

• Position: Middle of a two-way street for left turns or U-turns.
• Limit: Drive only 200 feet in this lane.

Turnout Areas or Lanes

• Purpose: Allow slower vehicles to let others pass.
• Requirement: Use when five or more vehicles are behind you.

Bicycle Lanes

• Restriction: For bicyclists only; illegal to drive in, except in specific scenarios.

Turns

Right Turns

• Steps: Signal, check for obstacles, and turn close to the curb.
• Against Red Lights: Stop before turning unless prohibited.

Left Turns

• Steps: Signal, check for right-of-way, turn from the designated lane.
• Against Red Lights: Permitted only from one-way street to one-way street.

U-turns

• Allowed: Across double yellow lines, residential areas, and with posted signs.
• Prohibited: No U-turn signs, railroad crossings, and certain areas.

Merging and Exiting

Merging

• Procedure: Match traffic speed, check mirrors and blind spots, merge safely.

Exiting

• Procedure: Signal, check blind spots, be in the proper lane.

Crossing or Entering Traffic

• Space Requirement: Half a block in city, full block on highway.
• Caution: Do not assume others' intentions based on signals alone.

Passing

How to Pass

• Steps: Signal, check blind spots, enter passing lane, pass safely.
• Restrictions: Do not pass on the left if the driver ahead is turning left.

Being Passed

• Procedure: Allow the passing vehicle to pass; maintain speed and lane.