Pavement Markings and Object Markers Used with Signs
Pavement markings and object markers carry legal meaning even when no sign is present. Missouri questions often pair a marking with a sign, so learn both the color rule and the line pattern.
Core rules
- Yellow center lines separate traffic moving in opposite directions. A broken yellow line allows passing when safe; a solid yellow line on your side means do not pass; double solid yellow means no passing in either direction.
- White lines separate traffic moving in the same direction or mark the roadway edge. A broken white line allows a lane change when safe; a solid white edge line marks the right edge.
- Stop bars are thick white lines before an intersection or crosswalk. Stop before the bar, not on it or on the crosswalk.
- Arrows and lane lines direct turns and through movements. A two-way left-turn lane is marked by a center lane with left-turn arrows in both directions.
- Object markers mark obstructions. Hazard markers with diagonal stripes show the side to pass: the stripes slope down toward the safe side.
Worked example
A driver approaches a two-lane road with a double solid yellow center line and a sign showing a no-passing pennant. The double solid line means no passing in either direction. The driver must stay behind the slower vehicle until a broken line or passing zone appears.
Traps
Yellow marks opposite-direction traffic; white marks same-direction traffic or the road edge. A broken line does not guarantee it is safe to pass-check sight distance and signs. Do not cross a solid line to reach an exit or turn lane early.