What you need to understand
Pavement markings organize direction, lane use and passing. Bicycle lanes add another layer: drivers generally stay out but may cross where necessary for a turn or parking access after checking carefully for cyclists.
Key points to remember
- A broken line permits movement only when otherwise safe and legal.
- A solid-and-broken pair applies differently to each direction.
- Check for cyclists before crossing a bicycle lane.
Check your understanding
Practice questions
1. A solid yellow line is beside your lane and a broken yellow line is beside the oncoming lane. Who may pass if every other condition is safe?
- Both directions
- Only traffic on your side
- Only traffic with the broken line on its side
- Neither direction under any circumstances
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: Only traffic with the broken line on its side
With a solid and broken yellow pair, only the driver with the broken line on their side may pass when the manoeuvre is otherwise legal and safe.
2. When may a motor vehicle enter a marked bicycle lane?
- Whenever general traffic is slow
- To pass a left-turning vehicle
- Only when needed to turn or enter or leave a parking spot, after carefully checking for cyclists
- At any time if no cyclist is immediately visible
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: Only when needed to turn or enter or leave a parking spot, after carefully checking for cyclists
Vehicles do not travel in bicycle lanes. The guide allows entry when needed to turn or enter/exit parking, with particular care for cyclists.
Exam-day strategy
For paired markings, apply the line closest to your vehicle.
Read every word, especially qualifiers such as must, only, before, and NOT. Eliminate choices that contradict the official rule, then select the safest complete answer.