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Is it legal to overtake UK?

Author

Sarah Smith

Published Jan 12, 2026

The Highway Code outlines situations in which overtaking is and isn't permitted in the UK. Rule 162 says driver must ensure that the before overtaking that the road is sufficiently clear ahead, road users are not beginning to overtake you and there is a suitable gap in front of the road user you plan to overtake.

Are you allowed to overtake in the UK?

Only overtake on the right. Do not overtake on the left, or move to a lane on your left to overtake. In congested conditions, you are permitted to move into the left-hand lane, even if this means passing traffic in the lane to your right, however you should not weave in and out of lanes to overtake.

Is it illegal to overtake?

It is illegal to overtake if there are road signs or markings prohibiting it. These road markings appear as variations on double white lines; where the line nearest to you is broken, where the line nearest to you is solid, or where both lines are solid.

Is it illegal to overtake multiple cars UK?

No, there is no specific legislation that outlaws overtaking more than one car at a time, but there are other road rules (not to mention common sense) that suggest it's a bad idea.

Can you go over the speed limit when overtaking UK?

A common misconception held by some drivers in the UK could lead to some very serious consequences while on the roads. There is a myth that it is fine to exceed the speed limit while overtaking the vehicle in front of you, so long as you tuck back in and slow to the speed limit immediately after doing so.

24 related questions found

Where can you not overtake?

You must not overtake:

  • if you have to cross or straddle double white lines with a solid line nearest to you (but see rule 129)
  • if you would have to enter an area designed to divide traffic, if it is surrounded by a solid white line.

When can you overtake on the left UK?

Overtaking on the nearside (left) is legally acceptable if you are driving on a multi-lane carriageway in congested conditions, and the lane to the left is moving at a faster speed than lanes to the right.

Can you get fined for overtaking?

DRIVERS who fail to overtake properly could be slapped with an unlimited fine and up to nine penalty points on their licence. Under the Highway Code, motorists are advised of a number of situations where they should not overtake another vehicle.

What lines can you overtake on?

Double white lines where the line nearest to you is broken.

This means you may cross the lines to overtake if it is safe, provided you can complete the manoeuvre before reaching a solid white line on your side.

Can you overtake in a one way street?

If you're on a one-way street, you can overtake traffic travelling on either side. Follow the same rules as normal; check your mirrors and indicate before moving.

What is an illegal overtake?

If overtaking means entering a lane reserved for other road users, such as buses or trams. In zones marked 'no overtaking' If the road has a single white line down the middle, or a double white line with a solid line closest to you. If the car in front has stopped at a pedestrian crossing.

Can I get points for overtaking?

Dangerous overtaking could lead to penalty points and an unlimited fine, drivers are being reminded.

Can you break the speed limit to overtake?

“Although you should complete an overtaking manoeuvre quickly, never exceed the speed limit for the road.” As rule 125 of the Highway Code states, the speed limit is the absolute maximum you should drive on any particular road. This does not exclude overtaking.

Are you allowed to overtake on the inside?

In fact, Section 268 states, “Do not overtake on the left or move to a lane on your left to overtake.” The use of 'do not' instead of 'must not' means it is technically legal to overtake in any lane except the hard shoulder. Road users should avoid overtaking using the inside lane in any circumstance.

Is using a mobile phone illegal while driving?

RA 10913 or the Anti-Distracted Driving Act (ADDA) is a law that prohibits a person who is driving a motor vehicle from holding and using mobile communication devices and electronic entertainment gadgets.

How far are you allowed to reverse?

Explanation: You mustn't reverse further than is necessary. You may decide to turn your vehicle around by reversing into an opening or side road. When you reverse, always look all around you and watch for pedestrians.

How do you overtake on a motorway?

Let them get away and take their bad habits elsewhere. Never overtake on the left-hand side. If there is someone hogging the middle lane, then try to overtake on their right. Never use the hard shoulder to overtake (unless directed by signage or the police).

Is it illegal to overtake cars?

It is illegal if there are signs or road markings clearly prohibiting it, or if it's done in an unsafe, reckless or uncontrolled way. Examples of this include when you don't have clear visibility of the road ahead – maybe in poor weather, such as rain or fog – or if you must break the speed limit in order to overtake.

Is driving barefoot illegal?

If you're wondering is it illegal to drive barefoot, the answer is “no”. In fact, in all 50 states, there are no barefoot driving laws that prohibit this particular practice. However, some states may have recommendations or specific policies in place.

When should you overtake?

Check the oncoming traffic and see if there is enough room ahead. Look around if there is no vehicle or hazard in front. Check the traffic behind as the vehicles behind may want to execute an overtaking maneuver on you. Use your side mirrors and check blind spots.

Is middle lane hogging illegal?

Is middle lane hogging illegal? Middle lane hogging is classed as a traffic offence under 'careless driving' legislation—it's therefore illegal. Offenders risk the wrath of the law, as well as the annoyance of other motorists, when they fail to keep left.

What must you do when you're overtaking a car at night?

Explanation: To prevent your lights from dazzling the driver of the car in front, wait until you've passed them before switching to full beam.

When should you overtaking at night?

Which TWO of the following are correct? When overtaking at night you should

  1. Explanation: Only overtake the vehicle in front if it's really necessary. At night the risks are increased due to the poor visibility. ...
  2. Category: Vehicle Handling.
  3. References: The Official DVSA Guide to Driving: Section 13.

Do you indicate when overtaking a cyclist?

Regardless of what type of road you're travelling on, you should always indicate when overtaking another moving vehicle or changing lanes. Special consideration should be given, however, when overtaking cyclists, with the width of the road playing an important role.

What lines mean no overtaking?

The no overtaking road sign is circular with a red border meaning that it is giving drivers an order. As the no overtaking sign is regulatory, it is illegal to overtake. The no overtaking restriction ends when the lines in the road change from a continuous white line, to a broken line.