Highway Code Road Markings Explained

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🚗 Understanding Road Markings

Knowing what road markings mean is essential for safe driving. The Highway Code uses a range of lines, symbols, and signs to tell drivers when to stop, give way, or stay in lane.

Let’s go through the most common markings you’ll see on UK roads — and what they mean for you as a learner driver.

⚪ Double Give Way Lines

At the end of many junctions, you’ll see two short broken white lines across the width of the road.
These are give way lines, which mean you must give way to traffic on the main road before moving off or turning.

Used where visibility is poor (for example, on a blind or narrow junction).
You’ll often see a “GIVE WAY” sign and a large white triangle painted on the road.

👉 You don’t have to stop, but you must not emerge unless it’s safe.

🚦 Double Give Way Lines Across Both Lanes – One-Way Streets

If the double broken lines run across both lanes of the carriageway, it usually means you’re on a one-way street approaching its end.

Use the correct lane for your intended direction.
Look for directional arrows on the road surface.
Check for “One Way” and “No Entry” signs showing which turns are allowed.

➡️ This setup ensures traffic flows safely out of a one-way system without conflicting with vehicles coming from the opposite direction.

⚪ Single Broken Line Across a Junction

A single broken white line across the end of a side road also means give way, but it’s used where visibility is good and the road ahead is clear.

Slow down and look both ways.
Stop if necessary, but you may continue if it’s safe.

🔹 Single Broken Line at the Entrance – One-Way Street

When there’s a single broken line across the entrance to a junction, it usually indicates a one-way street.

You might see “Ahead Only” arrows painted on the surface.
There may also be blue circular direction signs confirming which way traffic must travel.

✅ Always check for signs before entering to ensure you’re travelling the correct way.

🛑 Stop Line and STOP Sign

A solid white line across the road means STOP — not optional.
It will always be paired with a red octagonal “STOP” sign.

You must stop completely at the line, even if the road looks clear.
Only move off after checking it’s safe in both directions.

⚠️ Failing to stop at a STOP line is a driving offence.

↔️ Centre Line Markings

The white lines in the centre of the road separate traffic moving in opposite directions. Their appearance tells you when it’s safe — or not safe — to overtake.

1. Short Broken White Lines

The most common type.
You may overtake or change lanes if it’s safe.

2. Longer Broken White Lines

Indicate a hazard ahead such as a bend or junction.
Avoid overtaking unless you are certain it’s safe.

3. Double White Lines (Solid and Broken)

If the line nearest to you is broken, you may cross to overtake safely.
If the line nearest to you is solid, you must not cross unless allowed under specific Highway Code rules.

🚴‍♀️ When You Can Cross a Solid White Line

Under Highway Code Rule 129, you must not cross or straddle a solid white line unless:

You need to pass a stationary vehicle,
You’re overtaking a cyclist, horse, or road maintenance vehicle travelling at 10 mph or less, or
You’re entering premises or a side road.

Otherwise, keep within your lane until the line changes to broken.

🪧 Common Road Signs You’ll See

Sign	Meaning
🔻 GIVE WAY	You must give way to traffic on the main road
🛑 STOP	You must stop at the line
⛔ No Entry	Do not enter – traffic from the opposite direction only
➡️ One Way	Traffic must travel in the shown direction
⬆️ Ahead Only	Continue straight ahead
🚫 No Overtaking	Overtaking is not permitted
⚪ End of No Overtaking	End of restriction

💡 In Summary

Marking	Meaning
Double broken lines	Give way
Double broken across both lanes	One-way street – use correct lane
Single broken at entrance	Likely a one-way street
Solid line at junction	STOP – must stop completely
Solid centre line	Do not cross except as allowed by Rule 129
Centre lines	Show overtaking and hazard information

🧠 Highway Code Tip

When approaching any junction or line across the road, always ask yourself:
“What is this marking telling me to do?”
If in doubt — slow down, look carefully, and be ready to stop.

✅ Why Learn With Humphreys Driving School

At Humphreys Driving School, we make sure every learner understands both the practical driving skills and the Highway Code knowledge needed to pass confidently and drive safely for life.

Our instructors explain markings and signs clearly, giving you real-life practice at junctions, one-way systems, and roundabouts — all at a pace that suits you.