The DTC
Observation, Signalling & Planning (8–13)7 min read

Other Traffic: Meeting, Crossing & Overtaking

Most of the time there will be other traffic on the road. Learn to deal safely with oncoming traffic, narrow roads, and overtaking when it is legal and safe.

The full guide

Sharing the road safely means understanding how to meet, cross, and overtake other vehicles. When meeting oncoming traffic on narrow roads, assess the gap, reduce speed, and be prepared to give way. Look for passing places and be ready to reverse if necessary. When crossing the path of other traffic at junctions, judge gaps accurately and do not rush. If in doubt, wait. When overtaking, ensure you have a clear view ahead, signal early, move out smoothly, pass quickly but safely, and return to your lane with enough clearance. Never overtake near junctions, pedestrian crossings, or on the approach to bends. On single-track roads, use passing places sensibly and be prepared to reverse to the nearest one if the other vehicle is closer to it. Give cyclists at least 1.5 metres of clearance and horses at least 2 metres.

Common faults

  • Forcing through narrow gaps at excessive speed.
  • Overtaking when visibility ahead is limited.
  • Not leaving enough clearance when passing cyclists.
  • Hesitating excessively at junctions and causing delays.
  • Failing to check mirrors before overtaking.
  • Not signalling intention to overtake.

What the examiner looks for

  • Appropriate speed reduction when meeting oncoming traffic.
  • Correct judgment of gaps when crossing traffic streams.
  • Safe overtaking with full observations.
  • Adequate clearance past vulnerable road users.
  • Willingness to give way when appropriate.
  • Use of signals and mirror checks before manoeuvres.

Quick tips

  1. 1On narrow roads, slow down before meeting oncoming traffic.
  2. 2Always check mirrors and blind spot before overtaking.
  3. 3Give cyclists at least 1.5 metres clearance when passing.
  4. 4If in doubt at a junction, wait for a larger gap.
  5. 5Use passing places sensibly — reverse if you are closer.

Common questions about other traffic: meeting, crossing & overtaking

Who has priority on a narrow road with passing places?
The vehicle closest to the passing place should reverse into it. If both vehicles are equally close, the driver who can reverse most safely should give way. Be patient and cooperative — the examiner values courtesy.
Is it legal to overtake on the left?
Overtaking on the left (undertaking) is generally prohibited except in slow-moving traffic queues where the left lane is moving faster, or when a vehicle is turning right and you can pass safely on the left. It is better to wait for a safe overtake on the right.
How much clearance should I give cyclists when overtaking?
At least 1.5 metres at speeds up to 30 mph, and more at higher speeds. The Highway Code now recommends leaving at least 2 metres when passing horses and 2 metres when passing pedestrians walking in the road.
Can I overtake on a pedestrian crossing?
No. It is illegal to overtake the vehicle nearest the crossing. You must not overtake on the approach to or on any kind of pedestrian crossing. This includes zebra, pelican, puffin, and toucan crossings.
What should I do if I meet a large vehicle on a narrow road?
Stop in a safe place and allow the larger vehicle to pass. Large vehicles need more space and may need to swing out wide. Never squeeze past — wait in a passing place or pull into a safe spot until the road is clear.
When is it safe to overtake?
Only when you have a clear view of the road ahead, there is enough space to complete the manoeuvre without cutting in, the road is clear of junctions and crossings, and it is legal to do so. If in doubt, do not overtake.

Ready to put this into practice?

These guides are a great starting point, but nothing replaces working with a DVSA-approved instructor who can give you real-time feedback.

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Other Traffic: Meeting, Crossing & Overtaking | The DTC