Road markings – types and rules

Road markings are painted lines and symbols on the road surface that regulate traffic. As a driver, you must know what the different types mean and how they affect your driving.

Main types of road markings

Colors of road markings

• White markings are used to separate traffic in the same direction and mark the edge of the road.
• Yellow markings are used for temporary regulations, for example at roadworks. Yellow markings override white markings.

Arrow markings and text

Arrows painted on the road show the direction you should drive in the specific lane. You must position yourself correctly well in advance of the intersection. Text like “BUS” or “TAXI” indicates that the lane is reserved.

Important rules to remember

• Road markings cannot alone override posted signs – but signs and markings should normally correspond.
• In case of conflict between yellow and white markings, the yellow applies.
• Temporary signs take priority over permanent markings.
• You should always follow the marking that gives you least freedom when in doubt.

Typical traps on the theory test

• Confusing a warning line with a regular dashed line – the warning line has longer dashes.
• Forgetting that yellow markings override white at roadworks.
• Believing that a dashed center line always means overtaking is allowed – you must also consider visibility and safety.

Further reading

• Read about center line and no-cross line for detailed rules on overtaking.
• See signs and road markings for an overview of all sign groups.
• Understand right of way and intersections for lane positioning before intersections.
• Read about restricted areas and traffic islands for rules on hatched areas.
• See edge line and shoulder for rules regarding the edge of the road.