Overtaking

Overtaking is prohibited wherever visibility or right of way is compromised: at a solid barrier barrier line on your side, approaching a rise or curve, near level and pedestrian crossings, at intersections, and where a No Overtaking Sign applies. The barrier-line rule is the most-tested element — you obey the line nearest you. Ties to Following Distance and Road Markings.

Plain-language rule

Overtake on the right, at a safe distance, and return to the left as soon as it is safe. You may pass on the left only in limited cases (the vehicle ahead is turning right, a one-way street, or multi-lane traffic in your direction).

Legal basis: National Road Traffic Regulations 2000, Reg 298 (passing) & Reg 298A (shoulder); barrier-line marking offence

Exceptions

  • Pass on the left when the vehicle ahead is signalling/turning right
  • Pass on the left in a one-way street or in lane traffic
  • Cross a broken line beside a solid line only from the broken-line side, when safe

Question patterns

  • Numeric recall (limits, distances, ages) where applicable.
  • “What must you do in situation X?” — required response.
  • Distractor trap: Believing you may never pass on the left, or that a solid line on your side may be crossed because there is a broken line on the other side (you may only cross when the broken line is on YOUR side).

Penalty / consequence

Crossing a barrier line or dangerous overtaking carries a fine and demerit points; reckless overtaking can be a criminal charge under NRT Act s63.

Ontology Overtaking [part-of] Rules of the Road

Connections

Sources