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Edge line
The line indicates the outer edge of the carriageway.
When you see the sign
Use the edge line to determine where the edge of the carriageway is, and position the car inside the line at a safe distance from the roadside. The edge line may be crossed when necessary and permitted, for example to enter a driveway or stop on a suitable shoulder, but only after checking the traffic around you.
Rules
- Kantlinje 1012.2 marks the edge of the carriageway and separates it from, among other things, the shoulder or other areas alongside the road.
- The edge line is not a barrier line and does not, by itself, prohibit you from driving over it.
- You should normally keep the car on the carriageway and not use the shoulder as an additional traffic lane.
- Crossing the edge line must be done without endangering or causing unnecessary inconvenience to other road users, and other rules on stopping, parking and road position still apply.
Tips
- Look well ahead and use the edge line as a guide to maintain a steady position, especially in darkness, rain and poor visibility.
- Keep extra distance from the edge line on bends so that the wheels do not run onto loose gravel or a soft shoulder.
- Before crossing the line towards a driveway or shoulder, check your mirrors and blind spot for cyclists and other road users.
- Do not follow the edge line so closely that your attention is diverted from the traffic and the road further ahead.
Common misconceptions
- Thinking that the edge line separates traffic lanes. It marks the edge of the carriageway, whereas lane lines are used between traffic lanes.
- Confusing the edge line with a barrier line and thinking it can never be crossed.
- Thinking that the area outside the edge line is a normal traffic lane that can be used for overtaking or driving past a queue.
Test yourself
Easy
What does this road marking indicate?
- AIt warns of insufficient visibility.
- BIt indicates the outer edge of the carriageway.
- CIt prohibits all crossing of the line.
- DIt separates lanes travelling in the same direction.
Medium
There is a slow-moving queue, and the area outside this marking is wide and clear. What should you normally do?
- AI pass the queue on the road shoulder.
- BI stop on the side area and wait.
- CI use the side area as an extra lane.
- DI remain on the carriageway and follow the queue.
Hard
Which visual feature characterizes the particular version shown in the picture?
- AIt consists of a solid line between two lanes.
- BIt consists of a broken line along the outer edge of the carriageway.
- CIt consists of a solid line along the outer edge of the carriageway.
- DIt consists of a broken line between two lanes.
Theory test tip
In the theory test, you may be asked about the difference between an edge line and a barrier line. Remember the keyword «edge»: The edge line shows where the carriageway ends, but does not by itself impose an absolute prohibition on crossing it.
Did you know
Edge lines are particularly important on dark Norwegian roads because they make the course of the carriageway easier to perceive when the roadside is otherwise difficult to see. The road marking may also be profiled to produce sound and vibration if a vehicle moves towards the edge.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive over an edge line?
Yes, the edge line is not in itself a barrier line. You may cross it when the manoeuvre is legal and can be carried out safely, for example when entering a driveway.
Can I use the area outside the edge line as a traffic lane?
No, the area outside the line is not a normal traffic lane. You must not use the shoulder for ordinary driving, overtaking or passing a queue.
What is the difference between an edge line and a lane line?
The edge line marks the edge of the carriageway. A lane line separates traffic lanes from each other and is therefore located within the carriageway.
Does the edge line mean that I am allowed to stop outside it?
No, the edge line does not in itself permit you to stop or park. You must still follow the rules on stopping and parking and assess whether the place is safe and suitable.
Practise for the theory test
Teorio has the complete theory syllabus in your own language. Download the app and practise whenever it suits you.
