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DMV Permit · General

When is it legal to drive in the left lane of a multi-lane highway?

Correct answer

When passing another vehicle or when traffic conditions require it — many states have 'keep right' laws that require slower traffic to stay in the right lanes; the left lane is for passing or faster-moving traffic

  1. A Always — any driver can use any lane at any time
  2. B When passing another vehicle or when traffic conditions require it — many states have 'keep right' laws that require slower traffic to stay in the right lanes; the left lane is for passing or faster-moving traffic
  3. C Only when the right lane is congested
  4. D The left lane is for trucks only

Why this is the answer

KEEP RIGHT / LEFT LANE LAWS: Most states have laws requiring slower-moving traffic to stay in the right lane on multi-lane highways. The left lane is designated for: PASSING slower vehicles; FASTER-MOVING TRAFFIC in some areas; LEFT TURNS. In some states, a 'KEEP RIGHT EXCEPT TO PASS' sign makes the requirement explicit — left-lane driving when not passing is illegal. Even where not specifically posted, driving slowly in the left lane while faster traffic queues behind you creates: road rage situations; accidents from risky passing maneuvers on the right; overall traffic congestion. LEFT LANE CAMPING is both discourteous and sometimes illegal. EXCEPTIONS: Dense urban traffic where lane assignments are for flow management, not passing.
Source: DMV Handbook, Keep Right Law

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