Can You Make a U-Turn on a Single Yellow Line on the Road?

[SanNora]

A single yellow line, if solid, strictly prohibits crossing for actions like overtaking, turning, or making a U-turn. Under normal driving conditions, you should not cross the line unless under special circumstances. If the single yellow line is dashed, you may overtake or make a U-turn as long as it is safe to do so. Circumstances under which a U-turn is permitted include: Presence of a U-turn signal or sign: If there is a traffic signal allowing U-turns at an intersection, you may make a U-turn when the U-turn signal is green. If there is a U-turn sign or a lane marking indicating U-turns, you may proceed with a U-turn after ensuring the safety of yourself and others. No U-turn sign but left turns are allowed (no prohibition signs for U-turns): At intersections where left turns are permitted and there are no signs or markings prohibiting U-turns, vehicles may make a U-turn. It is important to note that the maneuver should not disrupt the normal flow of other vehicles and must follow the left-turn signal. If making a U-turn at an intersection with a left-turn waiting area, you may first enter the waiting area when the straight signal is green and proceed with the U-turn once the left-turn signal turns green. U-turns are allowed at dashed lines: Whether the dashed line is white or yellow, U-turns are permitted. For double yellow lines with one solid and one dashed, check if your side is the dashed line. If it is, you may make a U-turn if safe; if it is solid, U-turns are not allowed.

[RachelLee]

I've been driving for over a decade and have seen all kinds of road markings, but the single yellow line issue really needs clarification. You absolutely cannot make a U-turn over a solid single yellow line - it's painted to prevent vehicles from crossing and avoid accidents. Driving over it could get you caught on camera, resulting in penalty points and fines, not to mention the high risk of colliding with oncoming traffic. U-turns might only be possible at dashed line sections, but only if there's no prohibition sign and you've confirmed it's safe with no pedestrians or vehicles around. I remember once seeing a driver force a U-turn over a solid line at an intersection, which caused a long traffic jam and nearly caused an accident. Later I heard he got fined 200 yuan and was heartbroken about it. Traffic rules exist to protect everyone - don't drive recklessly to save time. It's better to detour a mile than risk a second, especially during rush hours when you need to be extra cautious. New drivers often overlook details, but with more observation of road markings and practice, good habits will form. Safety comes first - developing good habits now saves major trouble later.

[VonMax]

The design of single yellow lines on the road is well-justified. Solid lines must never be crossed, let alone used for U-turns, as they serve to separate opposing lanes and reduce collision risks. Even when dashed lines permit certain maneuvers, caution is essential—for example, signaling, checking surroundings, and ensuring no pedestrian interference before making a U-turn. Many drivers assume minor violations are harmless, but crossing solid lines can trigger chain-reaction accidents. I once witnessed a congestion-worsening scrape caused by an illegal U-turn in heavy traffic. These rules aren’t arbitrary; urban planning meticulously arranges them. Violations risk not just fines but liability. A reminder: always heed road markings’ clarity—report wear promptly. Cultivating disciplined habits ensures smoother roads and a more pleasant commute.

[AdrianAnn]

I just got my driver's license not long ago, and the instructor repeatedly emphasized the rule that you cannot make a U-turn over a single solid yellow line. Crossing it would be a violation and result in penalty points. You might be able to do it at dashed lines, but you need to check the traffic signs and road conditions carefully. Now when I drive, I always keep an eye on the road markings—if there's a solid line, I obediently go straight and look for a suitable spot. New drivers tend to be impulsive, like wanting to make a U-turn to save time but ending up causing trouble instead. I remember during driving school, the instructor took us to simulate different road sections to distinguish between solid and dashed lines—safety is the top priority. Learning these details helps you make fewer mistakes and saves you from regrettable expenses.