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Single Solid White Line: What It Means & What To Do

Single Solid White Line (PM-5) - solid line white pavement marking sign: Marks the edge of the road or a lane where changing lanes is discouraged
MUTCD CodePM-5
CategoryPavement Markings
ShapeSolid line
ColorWhite

What Does the Single Solid White Line Mean?

Marks the edge of the road or a lane where changing lanes is discouraged.

About This Sign

A single solid white line marks the right edge of the road, or separates same-direction lanes where changing lanes is discouraged. Stay within your lane and cross only when necessary and safe.

Where you will see it

You see a single solid white line along the right edge of the road, or between same-direction lanes where changing lanes is discouraged.

What to do

  • Stay within your lane.
  • Cross the line only when necessary and safe.
  • Use it to judge the edge of the road.

A common mistake

Treating a solid white line as a strict barrier or as an invitation to drive over it. It discourages lane changes, so cross only when it is necessary and safe.

What to remember for the test

Remember the difference: a solid white line discourages lane changes, while double solid white lines prohibit crossing.

Other Pavement Markings

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Single Solid White Line mean?

Marks the edge of the road or a lane where changing lanes is discouraged.

What shape and color is the Single Solid White Line?

The Single Solid White Line uses the Solid line shape and White coloring.

Practice Road Sign Questions

Test your knowledge of road signs with free DMV practice tests.