247SimpleTests
DMV Permit · Speed and Distance

What does a solid white line on the road indicate?

Reviewed by Jordan Morley, Editorial Lead at 247SimpleTests. Written by the 247SimpleTests Editorial Team from the official source material cited on every question.

Correct answer

It marks the edge of the road or separates lanes of traffic going the same direction where lane changes are discouraged

  1. A It marks the edge of the road or separates lanes of traffic going the same direction where lane changes are discouraged
  2. B You may cross it freely to change lanes anytime
  3. C It separates opposing traffic
  4. D It means stop

Why this is the answer

A SOLID WHITE line marks the EDGE of the road (the right edge/shoulder line) OR separates lanes of traffic going the SAME direction where changing lanes is DISCOURAGED (you should stay in your lane). DMV/permit test. WHITE LINES separate traffic moving in the SAME direction; YELLOW lines separate traffic moving in OPPOSITE directions. A BROKEN (dashed) white line means lane changes ARE permitted when safe; a SOLID white line means lane changes are discouraged (and a DOUBLE solid white line means do not cross/change lanes). Knowing white-line meanings (same direction; solid = discouraged, broken = allowed) is commonly tested.
Source: DMV Permit — White Line Markings

Practice more questions

This question is from our DMV Permit Practice Tests practice test. Take the full practice test to test your knowledge across all Speed and Distance and other topics.

Take the DMV Permit practice test →

About this topic: Speed and Distance

Posted limits are maximums for ideal conditions. The basic-speed law makes you responsible for choosing a speed that fits real conditions, even when below the limit. This is one of 9 DMV Permit questions on speed and distance, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

New to this exam? Our DMV Permit exam guide explains the format, scoring, and how to prepare.

Related questions

Speed and Distance

What is the recommended following distance under good conditions on a freeway?

 Speed and Distance

The 'basic speed law' in most states means:

 Speed and Distance

What is the typical speed limit in a school zone during posted hours?

 Speed and Distance

What is the 'two-second rule' in driving?

State-specific guides

Need information for your state? Our state guides cover local requirements, fees, and what to expect on exam day.

California Texas Florida New York Pennsylvania Illinois Ohio Georgia

Recommended study materials

Study guide

DMV Permit Test Study Guide (Learner Editions)

State-by-state driver's license and learner's permit prep, road signs, and rules of the road in plain language.

Check Price → Study guide

Road Rules & Signs Workbook (Exambusters)

Targeted flashcard-style review of road signs, right-of-way rules, and speed limits for all 50 states.

Check Price → Study guide

Prepare for the Learner's Permit Test (Sterling)

Practice questions and explanations for teen and adult first-time driver license test takers.

Check Price →

As an Amazon Associate, CJ Affiliate, and AWIN publisher we earn from qualifying purchases. Links above are affiliate links. Full disclosure →