Left Turn Across Double Yellow

Legal left-turn scenarios across double yellow

Many jurisdictions allow a left turn across a double yellow when the maneuver is not "passing" and can be made safely—typically into a driveway, private road, or at an unsignalized intersection without conflicting signs or markings.

Driveway and private road entries without signals

Yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians. Make a single, clean crossover—no "lingering" in the opposing lane.

Gap selection, signaling, and wheel alignment

Signal early, judge a safe gap, and keep your front wheels straight while waiting. Turning your wheels invites a rear-end push into the opposing lane.

Avoid blocking the centerline while waiting

Straddle the centerline only when the gap is imminent; otherwise, keep your vehicle within your lane to preserve through-traffic.

Instructor tip for road tests

Examiners watch for full stops when required, pedestrian priority, and one decisive crossing when clear.

Illegal cases: no openings across double-double yellow

Two sets of double yellow lines form a painted median barrier (often called "double-double"). Crossing is prohibited except at marked openings or where a sign explicitly allows it.

Posted "NO LEFT TURN" and line-of-sight limits

Signs override. Poor visibility near hills/curves or posted prohibitions make the movement unlawful even if a driveway exists.