Question 1

What states have left lane passing only?

Accepted Answer

So, where can you get pulled over for driving in the left lane too long? Left lane driving is prohibited in almost all states. In 49 states, drivers must stay in the right-hand lane with certain exceptions that vary by state.
For example, some states only allow left-lane driving for passing slower traffic or turning, while others may only restrict it if you’re traveling below the speed limit.
So, where can you drive in the left lane? The one exception is North Dakota, which has no restrictions against left lane driving.

Question 2

Why is left lane camping illegal?

Accepted Answer

You might wonder, “Why is the left lane for passing only?” The left-lane law restricts the use of the left lane to turning or passing slower traffic. This law aims to improve safety on the roads and prevent accidents caused by slower drivers impeding traffic flow.

Question 3

Are there any penalties for driving in the left lane?

Accepted Answer

Yes, drivers can get a police citation for driving too slow and impeding traffic flow. Violating the left-lane law can result in penalties and fines depending on the state.

Question 4

What are the dangers of left-lane driving?

Accepted Answer

Left-lane driving can be dangerous when slower drivers impede the flow of traffic. It increases the risk of accidents, as faster drivers have to make sudden maneuvers to pass slower vehicles. Slower drivers should stay in the right-hand lane to maintain safety on the road.

Question 5

Where is it against the law to drive in the left lane for too long?

Accepted Answer

A top question readers ask is, “Is it illegal to drive on the left lane in certain states?”
Almost all states have implemented laws restricting left lane usage, including Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, West Virginia, and Florida.
For example, the Florida left lane law only allows driving in the left lane if turning or passing, while the left lane law in Minnesota requires you to move over if blocking traffic. However, it’s important to be aware of the specific keep right laws by state if you’re traveling.
Learn More:

Florida Auto Insurance
Minnesota Auto Insurance

Question 6

Can you stay in the left lane and get a ticket for it?

Accepted Answer

Yes, driving in the left lane and not passing or turning could result in a traffic citation. Slow drivers impeding traffic flow can be ticketed for violating the keep right law, while fast drivers may receive a ticket for reckless driving.

Question 7

Can left lane driving result in increased auto insurance rates?

Accepted Answer

Yes, both drivers involved in left lane violations, i.e., the slower driver and the faster driver, could be ticketed, which may lead to higher auto insurance rates.

Question 8

Is it illegal to drive in the left lane on a highway?

Accepted Answer

So, can you drive in the left lane on the highway? While some states only have restrictions for driving in the left lane on the interstate, some also prohibit it on highways too. For example, the Kentucky left lane law includes both interstates and highways, while the left lane law in Arizona includes highways, interstates, and multi-lane roads.
Drivers should choose the appropriate lane based on their speed. Faster drivers should use the left-most lane, while slower drivers should stay in the right-most lane. Impeding traffic flow can result in a ticket and license points.
Do points affect auto insurance rates? Yes, getting DMV license points added to your record can increase your rates by 20%-100%.

Question 9

How should drivers behave on a three-lane highway?

Accepted Answer

You might also wonder, “Can you drive in the left lane on a highway if it’s three lanes?” On a three-lane highway, slower drivers should still keep to the right-most lane, just like on a two-lane highway. The left lane is typically reserved for passing or higher-speed traffic.

Question 10

Do drivers have to let others merge?

Accepted Answer

Drivers already on the road are not required to let others merge, but it is generally considered courteous to allow merging as long as it’s done safely and without cutting off other vehicles.

Question 11

Is camping in the left lane illegal even if I’m driving the speed limit?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in most cases, the left-lane law still applies if you’re driving the speed limit. Studies have found driving the speed limit when it causes other cars to switch lanes repeatedly is actually more dangerous than speeding, with some law enforcement officers giving tickets to those slowpoke drivers.
Read More:

How long does a speeding ticket affect your auto insurance?

Question 12

What states is it illegal to pass on the right?

Accepted Answer

There are no states where it’s illegal to pass on the right.

Question 13

Can you go above the speed limit in the left lane?

Accepted Answer

No, exceeding the speed limit is always illegal, even in the left lane. While the left lane is designed to pass slower vehicles, you can’t speed in it.
Some people make the humorous notion that the “left lane is for crime,” meaning many drivers who use the left lane do so to exceed the speed limit. However, it’s important to follow the speed limit to avoid the consequences and dangers of speeding.
So, how fast can you go in the left lane on the highway? You must follow all traffic laws when driving in the left lane, which includes driving the posted speed limit.
To find the best auto insurance companies for drivers with speeding tickets, enter your ZIP code into our free quote tool below to compare rates near you.

Question 14

Is it illegal to drive in the left lane in Ohio?

Accepted Answer

It’s not illegal to drive in the left lane in Ohio, but there is a slower traffic keep right law in Ohio. You must keep right if you’re driving below the speed limit. Otherwise, you could get fined and face higher Ohio auto insurance rates.

Question 15

Is it illegal to drive in the left lane in Virginia?

Accepted Answer

Are you allowed to drive in the left lane in VA? Virginia drivers may use the left lane if passing or turning, making it one of the many “keep right except to pass” states.

Question 16

Is the left lane for passing only in Texas?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in Texas, drivers must move to the right lane if passing, blocking traffic, or turning. Failing to follow the “slower traffic keep right” law in Texas could result in a $200 fine.

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Left-Lane Driving Laws by State: What You Should Know (2025)

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