DMV Permit · Passing

Before passing another vehicle on a two-lane road, you should:

Correct answer

Check that the oncoming lane is clear for the full distance needed to pass, check mirrors and blind spots, signal, and only pass when safe

  1. A Honk to warn the vehicle ahead
  2. B Check that the oncoming lane is clear for the full distance needed to pass, check mirrors and blind spots, signal, and only pass when safe
  3. C Speed up to within one car length, then move out
  4. D Move into the oncoming lane and decide once you are there

Why this is the answer

Safe passing on a two-lane road requires: (1) checking that the oncoming lane is clear for the full distance needed to complete the pass and return to your lane safely — typically 700 feet or more at highway speed; (2) checking your mirrors and blind spot for vehicles already passing you; (3) signaling your intent; (4) moving into the oncoming lane and accelerating to clear the slower vehicle; (5) signaling and returning to your lane only after you can see the slower vehicle in your rearview mirror. Never pass where road markings prohibit it (solid yellow line on your side), near intersections, on curves, on hills, or where you cannot see the road ahead clearly. Honking before passing is sometimes appropriate but does not substitute for clear line of sight.
Source: Standard state driver handbook, Passing

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About this topic: Passing

Passing on a two-lane road requires clear sight distance, a legal stretch, and gap planning. Most passing-related crashes happen because the driver misjudged either the distance or the oncoming vehicle's speed. This is one of 4 DMV Permit questions on passing, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

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