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Barrier line
The line separates lanes. Driving on or across a barrier line, or to the left of a yellow barrier line, is prohibited.
When you see the sign
Stay in your lane and do not drive on or cross the solid white line. Wait to change lanes, overtake or make other manoeuvres that require crossing it until the solid line ends or the road markings permit it.
Rules
- It is prohibited to drive on or cross a solid white line.
- The line separates lanes, normally carrying traffic in the same direction.
- You cannot change lanes across the solid line, even if there is no other traffic.
- Where lines are combined, you must follow the line closest to your vehicle.
Tips
- Look well ahead for the transition from a broken line to a solid line, and complete any necessary lane change before the solid line begins.
- Avoid putting your wheels on the line on bends or in narrow lanes.
- If you are in the wrong lane, continue in that lane and find a legal opportunity to change your route later.
- Consider both the line type and its colour: A solid white line is not the same as a broken white lane line.
Common misconceptions
- Some people think the solid line can be crossed when visibility is good or there is little traffic. The prohibition applies regardless of this.
- Some people confuse a solid white line with a broken white warning line. The warning line is broken, while the solid line is continuous and must not be crossed.
- Some people think that only the entire vehicle must be kept away from the line. It is also prohibited to drive with one or more wheels on the solid line.
Test yourself
Easy
What does this road marking mean?
- AIt separates lanes and must not be driven on or over.
- BIt separates lanes and may be crossed when the traffic permits it.
- CIt marks the edge of the road and may be crossed when overtaking.
- DIt warns of danger, but may be crossed with particular caution.
Medium
You are in the wrong lane before an intersection, and this marking separates you from the correct lane. What should you do?
- AContinue in your own lane until the marking permits a legal lane change.
- BChange lanes immediately if you use the turn signal well in advance.
- CChange lanes carefully if only the left wheels cross the line.
- DChange lanes immediately if there is no traffic approaching from behind.
Hard
What distinguishes this white version from the corresponding yellow version?
- AThe white version can normally be crossed when there is no traffic approaching from behind.
- BThe white version normally separates lanes carrying traffic in the same direction of travel.
- CThe white version normally warns of danger when changing lanes.
- DThe white version normally separates lanes carrying traffic in opposite directions of travel.
Theory test tip
Look carefully at whether the line is solid or broken. A common trick is an answer option saying that you may cross a solid white line if the road is clear behind you; this is incorrect.
Did you know
In Norwegian road markings, white longitudinal lines are normally used between lanes carrying traffic in the same direction, while yellow lines normally separate traffic travelling in opposite directions.
Frequently asked questions
Can I change lanes across a solid white line when there is no other traffic?
No. You must wait until the solid line ends or is replaced by a line that permits a lane change.
What is the difference between a solid white line and a broken white warning line?
The solid line is continuous and must not be driven on or crossed. The warning line is broken and warns of danger when changing lanes, meaning that crossing it requires particular care.
What should I do if the solid line is combined with a broken line?
You must follow the line closest to your vehicle. If the solid line is closest, you cannot cross the road markings from your side.
Can I drive on the solid line itself without crossing completely over it?
No. The prohibition applies both to driving on the line and to crossing it.
Practise for the theory test
Teorio has the complete theory syllabus in your own language. Download the app and practise whenever it suits you.
