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Guidance line
The guidance line indicates the routing of lanes or turning movements through an intersection.
When you see the sign
Position the vehicle so that you follow the guide line through the junction in the lane or along the turning path you have chosen. Adjust your speed, watch for other traffic, and follow signs, traffic signals, arrows and right-of-way rules.
Rules
- The guide line shows how lanes or turning paths are carried through a junction.
- A yellow guide line is used to mark the path where traffic travelling in opposite directions must be kept separate; stay on the correct side of the line.
- The guide line does not give you priority and does not override a duty to yield indicated by signs, traffic lights or the traffic rules.
- The guide line is not a barrier line, but you should follow it so that you do not enter the wrong lane or the opposing traffic lane.
- If you change lanes or deviate from the indicated path, you must do so legally, clearly and without creating danger or unnecessary obstruction for others.
Tips
- Choose the correct lane before entering the junction, so that you do not have to make a late lane change between the guide lines.
- Look through the turn and let the vehicle follow the line's natural curve, particularly when turning left at large junctions.
- Check your mirrors and blind spot if you need to change lanes before or after the junction.
- Be alert for traffic that may cut across the turn and cross the guide line.
Common misconceptions
- Assuming that the guide line gives you priority. It only shows the path through the junction.
- Confusing it with a barrier line and assuming that it is always absolutely prohibited to cross it.
- Cutting across the turn and ending up on the wrong side of the yellow line or in the wrong lane after the junction.
Theory test tip
In the theory test, the trap may be treating the guide line as a barrier line or as an indication that you have priority. Remember its main function: it guides lanes and turning paths through the junction, while right of way is determined by other rules and signals.
Did you know
Guide lines are often used at wide or complicated junctions where it might otherwise be difficult to understand the lanes' onward direction. Yellow road markings help make the separation from traffic travelling in the opposite direction more visible.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive over a yellow guide line?
The guide line does not have the same absolute prohibition on crossing as a barrier line. You should nevertheless follow the indicated path and must not cross it in a way that puts you in the wrong lane, takes you into the opposing traffic lane or creates a hazard.
Does the guide line give me priority through the junction?
No. You must still follow traffic lights, give-way signs and the usual right-of-way rules, including those concerning oncoming traffic when turning left.
What is the difference between a guide line and a lane line?
A guide line shows the onward path of lanes or turning movements through a junction. A lane line is used more generally to separate lanes along the road.
Why is the guide line yellow?
In this context, yellow road markings are used to show the path where traffic is separated from traffic travelling in the opposite direction. You must therefore be particularly careful to stay on the correct side through the junction.
Practise for the theory test
Teorio has the complete theory syllabus in your own language. Download the app and practise whenever it suits you.
