Signs, signals and pavement markings
In the middle of a two-way street, a lane is bordered on each side by a broken line on the inside and a solid line on the outside. What may you use it for?
- To prepare for and make a left turn or a U-turn. Correct answer
- To pass slower vehicles whenever the lane is empty.
- As an extra through lane for either direction in heavy traffic.
Why
That pattern, broken on the inside and solid on the outside, marks a center left turn lane. It gives drivers who are turning left or making a U-turn a place to get ready and turn without holding up the through lanes. The handbook states plainly that it is neither a regular traffic lane nor a passing lane, which rules out both of the other answers. To turn from it, watch for vehicles coming toward you in the same center lane, signal, look over your shoulder at your blind spots, merge all the way in so you do not block traffic, and turn when it is safe.
Where this comes from
California Driver's Handbook, June 2025 edition. The correct answer is To prepare for and make a left turn or a U-turn.
The rule behind this one
California road signs, signals and pavement markings goes through the whole topic, with the page of the California Driver's Handbook behind every rule.
More on signs, signals and pavement markings
- A green arrow lets you make a protected turn. What makes the turn protected?
- A pedestrian signal at a crosswalk shows a number that keeps going down. What do the numbers mean?
- An intersection has crisscross and diagonal crosswalks that let pedestrians cross in any direction at the same time. When may a pedestrian cross diagonally?
- You are walking up to an intersection with traffic lights but no pedestrian signals. What should guide when you cross?