Road markings are essential signalling elements that guide and regulate traffic on our roads. Painted directly on the carriageway, they organise traffic flow and ensure the safety of all road users. Let us discover the different types of markings and their meanings.

Road markings

The continuous white line

No driver may cross it. It is forbidden to drive to the left of the line when it separates two directions of traffic. Overtaking, changing lanes, making a U-turn or turning left are all prohibited. It is a third-degree offence.

The broken white line

It may not be crossed except to overtake, make a U-turn, change lanes or turn left. Shorter, closer-spaced dashes indicate an approaching continuous line.

Juxtaposed lines

A continuous white line alongside a broken white line – you must observe the line on your side. A driver who has crossed the broken line to overtake may cross the continuous line to merge back.

The orange line

Temporary markings during road works. May be continuous or broken. Overrides the white continuous or broken line. It is a third-degree offence.

The bus lane

Traffic lane marked by large broken dashes with the word BUS, accompanied by sign F17. Reserved for public transport vehicles and vehicles whose symbols are marked on the carriageway. Drivers must enter the lane 10m before the junction to turn.

The crossable special reserved lane

Wide continuous white line with sign F18. Reserved for public transport and authorised vehicles. May only be crossed to avoid an obstacle, cross the road, access a parking space or private property, or change direction at the junction.

The rush hour lane

Lane marked by long closely-spaced broken dashes. Open when a green arrow signal is displayed, closed when a red cross appears above the lane.

The actual edge of the carriageway

Continuous white line marking the actual edge of the carriageway, the kerb of a pavement or a verge. No prohibition is associated with this marking.

The actual edge in broken yellow

Wide broken yellow line drawn on the actual edge of the carriageway, the kerb of a pavement or a raised verge to make them more visible.

The notional edge of the carriageway

Wide continuous white line drawn to mark the notional edge of the carriageway.

Road markings are an indispensable visual language for all drivers. Observing them is crucial for road safety and the smooth flow of traffic. It is therefore essential to know their meanings thoroughly and to comply with them at all times.