Center Line or Lane Line
The sign indicates a center line or lane line
When You See This Sign
When you see this marking you should first determine whether the line is solid or dashed. Always keep to the right of the centerline; crossing the line to overtake or change lanes is only allowed if the line is dashed and it is safe to carry out the maneuver.
Rules & Regulations
- A solid (continuous) centerline/lane line means you must not cross the line to overtake or to change lanes.
- A dashed (broken) line means crossing to overtake or change lanes is permitted, but only when it is safe and the traffic situation allows.
- The centerline marks the separation between opposing traffic — always keep to the right of the centerline.
- Lane lines mark lane divisions and must be obeyed; when the line is solid you must not cross it to change lanes or overtake.
Tips for Drivers
- Quickly check whether the line is solid or dashed before planning a lane change or an overtaking maneuver — make your decision well in advance.
- At a dashed line: check your mirrors and blind spot and assess visibility and oncoming traffic before starting the maneuver.
- At a solid line: plan alternative driving options (wait until the line becomes dashed or use a junction) instead of trying to cross the line.
- On narrow country roads where the centerline is solid, be extra careful when meeting other vehicles and do not try to force the vehicle in front of you over to create space.
Common Mistakes
- Assuming a dashed line always means it is safe to overtake, without first checking visibility and mirrors.
- Crossing a solid line to take a shortcut or avoid a queue — a solid line must not be crossed for overtaking or lane changes.
- Confusing the centerline with the edge line and assuming the same lane-changing rules apply to roadside markings.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Center Line or Lane Line
What is expected of you as a driver here?
- A The dashed line indicates the center line or lane line.
- B This is a warning line that prohibits changing lanes.
- C The mark indicates where a bicycle path begins.
- D The mark indicates that a parking prohibition begins here.
Exam Tip
On the theory test a common trap can be a question about the difference between 'crossing the line to overtake' and 'turning into' a property — read the question carefully and note whether the line is solid or dashed.
Did You Know?
The M1 marking is one of the most common road markings in Sweden and is used both as a centerline for opposing traffic and as a separator between lanes in urban areas and on rural roads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I allowed to cross a dashed centerline when turning left?
Yes, a dashed line allows you to cross to make a left turn, but you must first ensure that it can be done without endangering oncoming traffic and other road users.
Can I cross a solid line to avoid an obstacle on my side of the road?
Generally you may not cross a solid centerline for overtaking or lane changes. If an immediate obstacle requires evasive action to prevent an accident, special exceptions may apply, but this is an emergency situation and not a routine option.
Do the same rules for lane lines apply in urban traffic as on rural roads?
Yes, the principle is the same: a solid line must not be crossed for lane changes or overtaking, a dashed line permits crossing if it is safe. However, local signs and markings may supplement or specify the rules on short stretches.
What does it mean if there is a double solid centerline?
A double solid centerline reinforces the prohibition against crossing the centerline and is often used where overtaking is particularly dangerous or forbidden. The rule is the same: you must not cross the line to overtake or change lanes.
Practice more in the app
Study Swedish road signs and driving theory in English. 314 signs with rules, tips and quizzes.