Rules of the road
Lesson 6 · Passing and highways

Can you pass near the top of a hill or on a curve?

Short answer

No. Do not pass when you cannot see far enough ahead, such as near the top of a hill, on a curve, or close to an intersection, bridge or railroad crossing.

Watch it play out

How to do it

  1. Stay behind slow vehicles near hills and curves.
  2. Watch for a solid line on your side, which means no passing.
  3. Keep a safe following distance so you can see ahead.
  4. Pass only once you reach a clear, legal passing zone.

Why the rule works this way

At highway speeds, two cars closing head-on cover a lot of ground in a few seconds. You need to see the whole passing distance before you start.

Common mistakes

  • Passing because the line is broken even though a hill blocks the view.
  • Following so close that you cannot see past the truck.
In VirginiaDo not pass on hills or curves where you cannot see ahead. See all Virginia rules

Questions people ask

What else counts as a no-passing place?

Most states also ban passing within 100 feet of an intersection, bridge, tunnel or railroad crossing.