Philadelphia Drivers License Practice Test

What does a double yellow line indicate?

1. Passing is sometimes allowed

2. Passing is not permitted

3. It's a lane change zone

4. It marks a bike lane

The correct answer is: Passing is not permitted

A double yellow line indicates that passing is not permitted. This marking is used on the roadways to enhance safety by clearly signaling to drivers that they should not cross the line to overtake another vehicle. The presence of this line is a clear visual cue that the roadway may be too dangerous for passing due to factors such as visibility, curves, or other oncoming traffic. This traffic control measure is particularly important in maintaining a safe distance between vehicles, reducing the risk of head-on collisions, and helping drivers make informed decisions based on the road conditions. By following this guideline, drivers contribute to safer road environments for themselves and for others. In contrast, other markings such as single yellow lines or dashed lines may indicate different rules concerning passing and lane changes, but a double yellow line unequivocally prohibits overtaking, making it crucial for safe driving practices.