Safe passing and lane changing are essential driving skills. Passing at the wrong time or in the wrong place is extremely dangerous and is one of the most frequently tested topics on the DMV exam.
Before passing, ensure you have enough space and time, check that the road ahead is clear, and signal your intentions. You generally need 10–12 seconds of clear road ahead to pass safely. Never pass on hills, curves, at intersections, or in school zones.
No-passing zones are marked with solid yellow lines on your side of the road. When being passed, maintain your speed or slow down slightly — never speed up. For lane changes, use the mirror-signal-check (blind spot) method every time.