texas no passing zone 545.055

What §545.055 prohibits and how officers interpret it

Texas Transportation Code §545.055 defines no-passing zones and prohibits overtaking when markings or signs indicate it is unsafe. The rule hinges on the combination of centerline patterns (solid vs dashed) and posted signs ("NO PASSING ZONE" pennant).

Reading dashed vs solid centerlines on Texas highways

When the dashed line is on your side, a pass may be legal if conditions are safe and no signs forbid it. When a solid line is on your side, do not initiate an overtake—officers often cite drivers even when a quick pass "seems clear."

Passing farm equipment and very slow vehicles

Texas allows careful passing of very slow equipment only when markings and sight distance allow. If visibility is marginal (crests, curves, dusk), patience outweighs a risky overtake.

When patience beats a risky overtake

Crashes often occur when a dashed segment is ending or sight distance was misjudged. Officers frequently note "insufficient clearance" and/or oncoming speed in reports.

Typical Texas citation language

Expect code references such as "TC 545.055 – passed in no-passing zone" or similar. Videos or dashcam timing from oncoming traffic are common evidence.

Signs, markings, and temporary construction conflicts

If a "NO PASSING ZONE" pennant appears before the solid begins, the sign governs immediately. During construction, obey temporary cones/flaggers even if the old markings remain.