OvertakingChina
Traffic rules
China
1. Overtaking
Overtaking is the act of passing another road user travelling in the same direction. It normally involves moving to another position or lane, passing the slower road user and returning to the appropriate position when it is safe.
Before overtaking, a driver should make sure there is sufficient visibility and space, check mirrors and blind spots, signal when required and ensure that no other road user is already overtaking. The manoeuvre must be completed without exceeding the speed limit or endangering other road users.
On which side do drivers normally overtake in China?
As traffic normally keeps right, drivers ordinarily overtake on the left. This is the general rule, not permission to pass wherever a lane is available; exceptions and restrictions depend on the local law.
🔗 xzfg.moj.gov.cn • Mainland China — Law Article 43; Regulations 47–48
🔗 jtgl.beijing.gov.cn • Beijing Traffic Police — full Road Traffic Safety Law, 2021 amended text
🔗 samr.gov.cn • SAMR — full implementing Regulations, 2017 amended text
When should you avoid overtaking in China?
Do not begin if approaching traffic, restricted visibility, road markings, an intersection, a crossing or another road user makes the manoeuvre unsafe or unlawful. Check behind and ahead, allow enough space and never exceed the speed limit to complete the pass.
🔗 xzfg.moj.gov.cn • Mainland China — Law Article 43; Regulations 47–48
🔗 jtgl.beijing.gov.cn • Beijing Traffic Police — full Road Traffic Safety Law, 2021 amended text
🔗 samr.gov.cn • SAMR — full implementing Regulations, 2017 amended text
What extra care is needed when overtaking slower road users in China?
Overtake only with the required clear view and sufficient safe distance under the national Law and implementing Regulations. Leave safe lateral clearance for cyclists and pedestrians and allow for unexpected movement. Wait if there is insufficient room; do not squeeze through or exceed the speed limit to finish the pass.
🔗 xzfg.moj.gov.cn • Mainland China — Law Article 43; Regulations 47–48
🔗 jtgl.beijing.gov.cn • Beijing Traffic Police — full Road Traffic Safety Law, 2021 amended text
🔗 samr.gov.cn • SAMR — full implementing Regulations, 2017 amended text
