A broken yellow line beside a solid yellow line indicates that passing is:
- Permitted from the side next to the solid yellow line.
- Not permitted from either direction.
- Permitted from the side next to the broken yellow line. ✓
Answer: C. Permitted from the side next to the broken yellow line.
Passing is permitted from the side next to the broken yellow line.
Why this is the answer
The handbook says a broken yellow line means you may pass when that broken line is next to your driving lane, and only when it is safe. It also says a solid yellow line on your side means you should not pass a vehicle ahead when there is just one lane in your direction. When the two markings sit side by side, the broken line gives the permission and the solid line withholds it.
Why the other answers are wrong
- A. Permitted from the side next to the solid yellow line. — The side with the solid yellow line does not get permission to pass, because the handbook ties passing permission to the broken line being next to your lane.
- B. Not permitted from either direction. — Passing is not banned from both directions, since the broken yellow line allows passing from the side next to it when it is safe.
Remember it
Treat the broken line as the side that is open for passing, and the solid line as the side that stays closed.
Official handbook: California Driver Handbook (DL 600), Section 6: Navigating the Roads, p. 13