OvertakingSlovakia
Traffic rules
Slovakia
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 Slovakia?
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.
🔗 static.slov-lex.sk • Slovakia: Act9,15(1)-(5),16-17
🔗 static.slov-lex.sk • Slovakia: Road Traffic Act8/2009, effective1October2026
When should you avoid overtaking in Slovakia?
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.
🔗 static.slov-lex.sk • Slovakia: Act9,15(1)-(5),16-17
🔗 static.slov-lex.sk • Slovakia: Road Traffic Act8/2009, effective1October2026
What extra care is needed when overtaking slower road users in Slovakia?
Keep sufficient lateral clearance, taking account of speed, vehicle type, weather and the road. For a small motorcycle, cyclist or pedestrian, the Act states that sufficient clearance is generally at least 1 m where the maximum permitted speed is no more than 50 km/h, and 1.5 m otherwise. Do not pass if the available space is unsafe.
🔗 static.slov-lex.sk • Slovakia: Act9,15(1)-(5),16-17
🔗 static.slov-lex.sk • Slovakia: Road Traffic Act8/2009, effective1October2026
