Lane control signs: solid lines, broken lines, HOV, and overhead arrows
A mix of pavement markings and overhead signs. Lane control rules are dry, technical, and easy to forget - which is why they’re tested heavily.
Where you’ll see lane control signs
On every multi-lane road. Solid lines and broken lines are painted on the road; lane-use signs are usually overhead.
What to do
Solid yellow line on your side: no passing. Broken yellow: passing OK when safe. Solid white: changing lanes is discouraged but legal. Broken white: changing lanes is fine. Double solid lines (yellow or white): never cross. HOV lanes (diamond symbol): minimum number of occupants required, often 2 or 3, posted on the sign.
Common test traps
Overhead green arrows mean the lane is open. Red X means the lane is closed; if you’re in it, exit at the next safe opportunity. Yellow arrows mean the lane is closing soon. Test questions love asking what to do if you see a yellow X over a lane you’re in - answer: prepare to merge out.
Sample questions on lane control signs
Here are 4 practice questions on this topic. Tap to reveal the answer.
Question 1: When entering or exiting an Arizona HOV lane, what must you do?
- Stop completely before crossing into the lane
- Always signal and use caution when merging across the solid white line
- Wait for a broken line before changing lanes
Correct: Wait for a broken line before changing lanes
Why: In Arizona, you may only enter or exit an HOV lane where there is a broken (dashed) white line; crossing a solid white line is prohibited.
Question 2: What color are the solid lines that separate bicycle lanes from motor vehicle lanes in Maryland?
- White, solid or broken
- Red, solid only
- Yellow, solid or broken
Correct: White, solid or broken
Why: Solid or broken white lines separate bicycle lanes from motor vehicle lanes. These may be marked with bike lane signs or by bicycle symbols and arrows to clearly designate the bicycle lane.
Question 3: What does a double solid white line signify?
- You must stay in your lane.
- You may stop for pedestrians.
- You can change lanes.
Correct: You must stay in your lane.
Why: Double solid white lines indicate that lane changes are not permitted.
Question 4: When must you signal before making a turn or lane change?
- At least 100 feet before the turn in most situations
- Only when other vehicles are present
- Immediately as you begin the maneuver
Correct: At least 100 feet before the turn in most situations
Why: According to the Signaling section under Lanes, Intersections, and Turns, drivers must signal their intentions well in advance, typically at least 100 feet before turning in most driving situations.
Practice lane control signs in your state
This topic is heavily tested across all 50 states. Here are some popular state pages that include lane control signs practice questions: California permit test practice, Texas permit test practice, Florida permit test practice, Washington permit test practice, Virginia permit test practice. Or browse all 50 states + DC.
FAQ
How often do lane control signs appear on the DMV permit test?
They show up on virtually every state’s permit test. Expect at least 1-3 questions on lane control signs on a 25-question exam, more on longer exams.
What’s the most common mistake on lane control signs questions?
Overhead green arrows mean the lane is open.
Are lane control signs the same in every state?
Mostly yes - sign shapes and colors are federally standardized through the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). State-specific rules layer on top, especially for fines, lane rules, and time-of-day variations.
Where can I practice questions about lane control signs?
DMV Ready includes practice questions on lane control signs for every state. Same exam format as your real DMV test.
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