California · Driving practice
Broken Yellow Line: When Passing Is Allowed
A broken yellow line on your side of a two-way road allows a passing movement only when the opposing lane is clear and the maneuver is safe. The word allows should not be read as requires. The marking does not remove oncoming traffic, improve a blocked view or create space to return. This California question asks about a conditional opportunity, so the best answer includes the traffic and safety checks rather than treating the broken pattern as automatic permission at any moment. Source
The short answer
You may cross to pass when the opposing lane is clear and passing is safe and otherwise permitted.
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Check your understanding
Choose an answer, or open “Show answer” to read the explanation. This practice does not change your saved tests or mistakes.
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Why this answer fits the situation
The correct answer connects the marking with the real road conditions. A passing decision needs more than seeing a gap in paint: the path out, the opposing lane and the return all have to be suitable. A solid-and-broken pair also requires noticing which line is on your own side. Do not borrow the permission from the other side of the centerline. This exercise addresses the broken-yellow arrangement actually described, not every possible yellow marking.
How to read the decision on the road
Read the question for both the road type and the side beside your vehicle. Then assess whether the answer retains a safety condition. If you are following a slower vehicle but cannot see enough of the road ahead, the marking has not solved that visibility problem. Remaining behind it can be the appropriate decision. The linked passing-clearance explainer addresses the later return; it does not turn an unsafe start into a safe pass.
Why the other choices do not fit
At any time without checking
“At any time” discards the central condition. A broken line does not make an occupied opposing lane available or eliminate hazards beyond the visible section. Permission in principle must still be matched to a safe real opportunity.
Only to park
The marking is not described as a parking instruction. The prompt specifically asks about crossing a centerline on a two-way road, so a parking-only answer changes the subject instead of interpreting the passing arrangement.
Never
“Never” treats the broken line as an unconditional prohibition. That misses the distinction the question tests: passing can be permitted here, but only after the required observation and safety judgment rather than merely because the line is broken.
Related decisions and state practice
Double solid yellow lines: distinguish passing from a lawful turn
A lawful left turn into or out of a driveway can be permitted; crossing to pass another vehicle is different.
California context
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After passing: use mirror clearance without cutting back too closely
Look for both headlights of the passed car in the rearview mirror, then complete the other checks and use a safe gap.
California context
Read the source