Florida Passing Laws and Regulations

This section of the drivers handbook explains the different driving situations in Florida when you can and cannot pass.

Topics Addressed in This section of the Florida Driver Handbook include:

  • Safe Distances
  • Checking Blind Spot before passing
  • Signaling That You are About to Pass
  • Being Passed
  • When You May Not Pass

Guidelines for Passing on Florida Roads and Highways

Stay a safe distance behind the vehicle you want to pass. The closer you get to the vehicle you want to pass, the less you can see ahead. This is especially true when passing trucks, trailers, and other large vehicles.

Before you pull out to pass, check your blind spots and make sure that you have plenty of time and room to pass

On a two-lane road, tap your horn, or at night blink your headlights to let the other driver know you are passing.

Give your signal before you move into the left lane.

Do not return to the right side of the road until you can see the tires of the vehicle you passed in your rearview mirror.

You must return to the right side of the road before coming within 200 feet of any vehicle coming from the opposite direction.

Passing on the right is only legal when there are two or more lanes of traffic moving in the same direction or the vehicle you are passing is making a left turn. Pulling off the roadway to pass on the right is against the law.

passing

Being Passed

  • The driver of the car being passed must not increase speed until the pass is complete.
  • Help other drivers pass you safely. Move to the right side of your lane to give them more room and a better view of the road ahead.

When You May Not Pass

You may not pass on a two-lane road with traffic moving in opposite directions under these conditions:

do not pass
  • Where you see a "DO NOT PASS" or "NO PASSING ZONE" sign.
  • Where a solid yellow line is painted on your side of the center line.
  • On hills or curves.
  • At intersections.
  • Within 100 feet of a bridge, viaduct, tunnel, or railroad crossing.

Violators may be arrested or issued a ticket.

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