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OvertakingItaly

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Italy. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
Italy

23. 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.

Overtaking
No-overtaking sign in Bolzano. (South Tyrol, Italy)
Wikimedia.org • Mattes • CC0
On which side do drivers normally overtake in Italy?

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.

🔗 aci.gov.it • Italy, Road Code — articles 143, 148, 154

🔗 aci.gov.it • ACI official Road Code — article 143

When should you avoid overtaking in Italy?

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.

🔗 aci.gov.it • Italy, Road Code — articles 143, 148, 154

🔗 aci.gov.it • ACI official Road Code — article 143

What extra care is needed when overtaking slower road users in Italy?

When a motor vehicle overtakes a cycle in Italy, Article 148(9-bis) requires adequate lateral clearance in light of the vehicles’ speeds, the motor vehicle’s size and the cycle’s reduced stability. Keep at least 1.5 metres where road conditions permit. The qualification does not authorise an unsafe close pass: wait whenever adequate safe clearance is unavailable.

🔗 aci.gov.it • Italy, Road Code — articles 143, 148, 154

🔗 aci.gov.it • ACI official Road Code — article 143

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