After passing the Basic Theory Test (BTT), most drivers would often forget the meaning of different line markings on the road. Even seasoned drivers fall victim to these road markings every now and then as they struggle to decipher the meaning behind the lines.
Hence, we have crafted a complete guide on the most common road markings seen in Singapore for inexperienced drivers to refer to and as a refresher for the veterans.
Common road markings
Single broken white line
Starting with the basics, a broken white line indicates the centre of a two-way road.
Drivers should always keep to the left of this road marking.
Motorists can cross the centre of this road marking when they can see that the road ahead is clear and that it is safe to do so.
Continuous white line
Like the single broken white line, a continuous white line indicates the centre of a two-way road. Drivers should also always keep to the left of this road marking.
Motorists can cross the centre of this line when they can see that the road ahead is clear and that it is safe to do so. However, parking is not allowed on either side of the road with this road marking.
Drivers who park on roads with a continuous white line will be fined up to $150, depending on the type of vehicle.
Parallel continuous white lines
The Rule Book for Those White Lines That Keep Us All in Check
What the White Lines are Actually Saying
Picture yourself cruising down a two‑way road and spotting those neat, straight white lines running side‑by‑side. Heads up! Those lines mean “No parking, no U‑turns, and no crossing the center.” Don’t let them feel like just decorative art – they’re the traffic police’s invisible fences.
Key Points to Remember
- No parking on either side: Think of those lines as the community wall; parking is a no‑go zone.
- No crossing the center: Treat it like a middle guard in a game of Hide & Seek – you’re not allowed to peek.
- No U‑turns or right turns: Those maneuvers are like a bad joke—everyone’s going to see it and say, “What?”
- Overtaking? Only if you stay entirely on the left side: Like a courteous driver, keep your lane like a polite neighbor.
Penalties If You Break the Rules
Let’s keep it light, but these aren’t joke penalties:
- Crossing the lines: You’ll pick up four demerit points and could pay a fine up to $200, depending on what type of vehicle you’re driving. That’s not just a slap on the wrist.
- Unauthorized U‑turn: Expect a fine up to $150. It’s a small price to pay for staying on the right side of the rules.
Takeaway
Next time you see those parallel white lines, give them a respectful nod and stay out of the “no parking” zone. It’s not just a set of blips on the road; it’s a friendly reminder to drive safely, keep your lanes, and avoid extra spending that could take a bite out of your pocket.
Continuous yellow line
What Happens When You Park on a Continuous Yellow Line in Singapore?
Ever heard of those bright yellow painted stripes that split roads in half? They’re not just decorative; they’re a tug‑of‑war between you and the parking authority. Let’s break it down, with a bit of humor so you don’t drown in the bureaucracy.
When You’re Allowed to Pigeon‑Drop
- Times: 7:00 am to 7:00 pm
Except: Sundays and public holidays – the government keeps its promises… by letting you park a bit. - Name of the Rule: “No Parking Between 7 am & 7 pm on the Yellow‑Line Side”
This rule is strict – it’s the ultimate guardian of street space. - Grand Exception: Dropping and picking up passengers from the yellow line is permitted. Think of it as a ‘quick‑stop for your taxi or ride‑share’ courtesy. But you can’t actually park there; you get off, hand the keys, and drive away.
What Happens If You Break the Rule?
Break the rule and the fines are not just a slap on the wrist. Depending on the size of your vehicle, you could pay:
- Cars – up to $150
- Motorcycles – slightly less, roughly $100
- Other Vehicles – the fine ranges, but the sticker can still burn a hole in your wallet.
So basically: don’t let that yellow line become your parking jackpot.
Why So Strict?
- Urban traffic arteries aren’t just cells for cars; they’re high‑speed train tracks.
- Continuous yellow lines help keep the flow moving and cut down on accidents caused by parked cars.
- They’re a visual reminder that “Stop parking, keep moving!”
Takeaway
Next time you’re cruising and see that yellow line, remember: it’s not a free parking zone. Unless it’s a Sunday, holiday, or you’re pulling over for a quick passenger drop‑off, it’s best to keep driving. That way you’ll avoid the fine, stay safe, and maybe get a few extra hours of sleep.
Also Read
A Car Parking Guide for New Drivers in Singapore
Because, let’s face it, you’ve already spent enough time navigating the M80 tunnels.
Parallel continuous yellow lines
What the Rules Actually Mean
Picture the road as a bunch of stripes: if you see a pair of parallel continuous yellow lines, they’re telling you it’s a no‑parking, no‑waiting zone, except when you’re just picking up or dropping off passengers. Think of it as a “move‑on only” sign that only lets you stop for a quick hat check.
Fine‑Hall of Fame
- Driving a car that parks on a yellow‑line zone? You could face up to a $150 fine.
- If you’re in a truck or bus, the same rule applies—no picnic parking; anger‑inducing ticket awaits.
Why the Milk‑Drop Policy?
The city wants roads free for through‑traffic. The brief stop for passenger pick‑up or drop‑off is a tiny, harmless exception. The aim: keep the lanes clear for everyone else.
On the Road—Remember the Yellow Lines!
Next time you spot those parallel lines, make a mental note: “Stop? No. Move? Yes.” Unless you’re dropping off a pal or picking up a ride‑share. In short, don’t let the yellow lines turn into a parking buffet that ends with a $150 penalty in your pocket.
Single yellow zig-zag line
Roads marked with a single yellow line indicate that parking is not allowed at all times on the side where it is drawn, except for the immediate picking up and letting down of passengers.
Drivers who park on roads with a single yellow zig-zag line will receive 3 demerit points and be fined up to $300, depending on the type of vehicle.
Double yellow zig-zag lines
Roads marked with double yellow zig-zag lines indicate that motorists are not allowed to stop at the side of the road where it is drawn at all times.
Drivers who stop on roads with double yellow zig-zag lines will receive three demerit points and be fined up to $300, depending on the type of vehicle.
Zig-zag lines by side of the road
Not to be confused with a single zig-zag line at the side of the road, this road marking is to warn drivers that there is a pedestrian crossing up ahead.
Vehicles are not allowed to overtake, wait, or park in the area of this road marking. Pedestrians are not allowed to cross the road at these zig-zag areas as well.
Drivers who park within pedestrian crossings will receive three demerit points and be fined up to $200, depending on the type of vehicle.
Traffic calming markings
These triangular road markings on both sides of the road encourage drivers to slow down as they create a visually narrowed road.
These road markings are typically found near school zones and silver zones.
ALSO READ: 5 advanced safety features to consider for your car
Bus lanes
During restricted hours, only omnibuses, bicycles and emergency service and police vehicles are allowed to use the bus lanes.
Non-scheduled buses (school or factory buses) can use the lane as well, but these vehicles are not allowed to stop, pick up or let their passengers alight while driving in the lane.
Normal bus lane
Normal bus lanes are marked by a continuous yellow line and a short horizontal line at intervals
Vehicles are not allowed to drive or park inside the lane during the operational hours from Mondays to Fridays, 7:30am to 9:30am and 5:00pm to 8:00pm An exception to this rule applies on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays.
If the lane has a broken yellow line, vehicles are allowed to turn from the bus lane into a side road or vice versa.
Drivers who ignore bus lane timings and drive in bus lanes will be fined up to $130. Refusal to pay the fine will result in a maximum fine of $1,000 or 3 months of imprisonment.
Full-day bus lane
Full-day bus lanes are marked by an additional red line parallel to the continuous yellow line.
Vehicles are not allowed to drive or park inside the lane during operational hours from Mondays to Saturdays, 7.30am to 11.00pm An exception to this rule applies on Sundays and public holidays.
Similarly, drivers who ignore bus lane timings and drive in bus lanes will be fined up to $130. Refusal to pay the fine will result in a maximum fine of $1,000 or three months of imprisonment.
ALSO READ: Traffic scientists have argued that zipper merging improves traffic, but would it work in Singapore?
This article was first published in sgCarMart.
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