Part 4 of 6 in Overtaking & Position on the Road
Overtaking across a solid line: rules and fine
Overtaking across a solid line is not allowed and can cost up to €320 (2026). Which lines decide whether you may overtake, and the exceptions.
Written by Chris Prosman Reviewed by Dirk van Zuijlen
Updated Reviewed on 3 min read
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You may not overtake across a solid line. With two lines side by side, the line on your side counts. And a broken line does not mean overtaking is always allowed.
May you overtake across a solid line?
No. You may not cross a solid line between lanes or directions of traffic (Article 76 RVV). Is the line between two directions of traffic? Then you may not drive to the left of it either. So you may not start just before the line and finish the overtake to its left. The same applies to a single and a double solid line.
A line along the edge of the road does not count here. But you still may not drive on the verge or the hard shoulder. Does the overtake fit within your own half of the road, with enough space to the side? For example with a cyclist? Then it can be allowed.
May you overtake a tractor at a solid line?
No, not if you have to cross the line. The law makes no exception for slow traffic, not even for a tractor. Can you do it within your own half of the road with enough space? Then it is allowed.
Which lines may you not cross to overtake?
You may not cross a solid line or a hatched area. You may cross a broken line, but overtaking must also be safe and allowed in every other way. At a glance:
| Picture | Marking | What does it mean for overtaking? |
|---|---|---|
 | Broken line or warning line | You may cross. A warning line (long dashes, short gaps) warns of danger, such as a bend. Better not to start then. With a double broken line you may cross from both sides. More under broken lines. |
| Solid centre line | Do not cross it or drive to its left. More under solid lines. |
 | Solid and broken line side by side | The line on your side counts. If it is broken, you may cross when it is otherwise safe. |
 | Temporary yellow line | At roadworks, yellow comes before white. More under yellow lines. |
 | Hatched area or chevron | Do not use it to overtake or to still reach an exit. More under hatched areas. |
 | Open peak-hour lane | You may then cross the solid line. You still overtake on the left there. More under peak-hour lanes. |
A colour between the lines, such as green, does not change the overtaking rule. See green lines. And is there a no-overtaking sign (F1)? Then it applies even where the line is broken.
What is the fine for overtaking across a solid line?
In 2026, overtaking across a solid line costs €320 where traffic goes in both directions (offence code R617b). Driving to the left of such a line is also €320 (R617c). Does traffic on both sides go the same way? Then crossing costs €190 (R617a). A double solid line carries the same amount: there is no separate offence code. €9 administration costs are added.
Overtaking at a no-overtaking sign is a separate offence. That fine is under overtaking signs.
Sources: OM fines book 2026 (Dutch) and RVV 1990, Articles 76, 77 and Annex 1. Amounts checked on 23 October 2026.
Overtaking signs · Overtaking on the left and right · Overtaking by situation · Road markings when overtaking · Getting in lane
Practise like the exam
Example questions like in the CBR exam
Real questions from the Theorio app. You can expect similar questions in your CBR exam.
Question 1 of 4
On your side the centre line is broken, on the other side it is solid. May you cross the centre line here to overtake?
Tap the answer you think is right.
Are you allowed to overtake the red car here on the left?
Tap the answer you think is right.
Is it allowed to overtake the red car here on the right?
Tap the answer you think is right.
In which situation are you allowed to overtake?
Tap the answer you think is right.
Answers and explanations for the example questions
Question 1: On your side the centre line is broken, on the other side it is solid. May you cross the centre line here to overtake?
Correct answer: Yes, if it is safe
Look at the line on your side. It is broken, so you may cross it when it is safe. For oncoming traffic the line is solid.
Question 2: Are you allowed to overtake the red car here on the left?
Correct answer: Yes
At block marking you can overtake on the left and right. Overtaking on the left is allowed here. 🚗
Question 3: Is it allowed to overtake the red car here on the right?
Correct answer: Yes
Block markings make overtaking more flexible. You can also overtake with an extra lane. 🏎️
Question 4: In which situation are you allowed to overtake?
Correct answer: Situation A
You are allowed to overtake in Situation A, both left and right. This is permitted due to the block marking. In Situation B, you do see a sign for the transport of hazardous materials, but that does not change the general priority rules. Overtaking on the right is not allowed. ↔️
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Short answers to questions that often come up on this subject.
What is the fine for overtaking across a solid line?
For a car, crossing a solid line where traffic travels in both directions costs €320 in 2026 (R617b), excluding €9 administration costs. Where traffic travels in one direction, it is €190 (R617a). Improper overtaking can also fall under other offences, such as overtaking in breach of F1; there is not one fine for every overtake.
What does overtaking at a no-overtaking sign cost?
Overtaking where sign F1 (no overtaking for motor vehicles) applies costs €320 in a car (offence code R593, 2026 amount), plus €9 in administration costs.
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