Combined lines (1006.3)

Combined lines

Road Markings Sign number: 1006.3

At combined lines, road users must comply with the line closest to them. A vehicle that has crossed into a lane for oncoming traffic may nevertheless return to the right-hand side of the road. A double yellow warning line indicates the separation between lanes in which the direction of travel may be varied.

When you see the sign

A double yellow warning line separates lanes where the direction of travel can be changed. Check signs, lane-control signals and other traffic controls before using the lane on the other side, and always follow the line closest to you.

Rules

  • Where lines are combined, follow the meaning of the line closest to your vehicle.
  • A double yellow warning line separates lanes where the direction of travel can be changed.
  • You must not drive in a reversible lane if a sign or lane-control signal indicates that the lane is closed or is being used by oncoming traffic.
  • If you have crossed into a lane for oncoming traffic, you may return to the right-hand side of the road even if the combination of lines would otherwise restrict crossing.

Tips

  • Look for lane-control signals above the road well in advance; a green arrow indicates an open lane, while a red cross means that the lane must not be used.
  • Do not assume the direction of travel solely from the traffic ahead, as the lane controls may be changing.
  • Keep a safe distance from the double yellow marking, especially when traffic may be approaching you on the other side.
  • Take extra care when entering a section where lane use is reversible, and position yourself in a lane that is clearly open in your direction of travel.

Common misconceptions

  • !Thinking that double yellow warning lines always mean the same as double solid lines. Warning lines are characterised by breaks and indicate here that the direction of travel in the lanes can be changed.
  • !Assuming that a lane is open because there is little or no oncoming traffic. Signs and lane-control signals determine whether the lane may be used.
  • !Forgetting the rule about following the nearest line when different types of lines are combined.

Test yourself

Easy

Combined lines (1006.3)

What does the double yellow broken marking indicate?

  • AIt separates lanes where all crossing is prohibited.
  • BIt separates lanes that always have the same direction of travel.
  • CIt warns that visibility is too short for overtaking.
  • DIt separates lanes where the direction of travel may be varied.

Medium

You want to use a lane with this marking, but the lane-control signal above the lane shows a red cross. There is no oncoming traffic. What do you do?

  • AI stay out of the lane because the signal shows that it is closed.
  • BI use the lane because no oncoming vehicles are approaching.
  • CI use the lane because broken lines can always be crossed.
  • DI use the lane because the marking gives me forkjørsrett.

Hard

What distinguishes the marking in the picture from double yellow solid lines?

  • AThe lines are solid and indicate that all crossing is always prohibited.
  • BThe lines are solid and indicate lanes where the direction of travel may be varied.
  • CThe lines are broken and indicate lanes where the direction of travel may be varied.
  • DThe lines are broken and indicate that normal overtaking is prohibited.

Theory test tip

In the theory test, the trap may be confusing a double yellow warning line with a double solid line. Remember that 1006.3 separates lanes with a reversible direction of travel, and that you must check the current controls for the lane.

Did you know

A double yellow warning line is used to mark lanes where the direction of traffic can be changed, for example to adjust capacity to heavy traffic in one direction at different times of the day.

Frequently asked questions

Does a double yellow warning line mean that I can choose whichever lane I want to use?

No. You may use a lane only when signs, lane-control signals and other traffic controls indicate that it is open in your direction of travel.

What does the colour yellow mean in this road marking?

Yellow road markings are normally used to separate traffic travelling in opposite directions. With 1006.3, the direction of travel in the lanes on either side of the separation may vary.

What should I do if a lane-control signal shows a red cross?

You must not drive in or continue in the lane beneath the red cross. Move to an open lane in good time, without obstructing or endangering others.

Can I return to the right-hand side if I am in the lane for oncoming traffic?

Yes. The regulations make an explicit exception allowing anyone who has crossed into a lane for oncoming traffic to return to the right-hand side of the road.

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