Traffic rules for double dashed center lines in Germany

In Germany, double dashed center lines on country roads serve as a specific traffic indicator that often causes confusion among drivers. While a single dashed line allows for overtaking, the double dashed marking acts primarily as a visual warning that overtaking conditions will soon change.

According to information shared by the ADAC, a double dashed line generally permits overtaking provided there is sufficient visibility and the oncoming lane is clear. However, these markings are typically placed to signal that an overtaking ban is imminent, such as before an upcoming curve or a crest in the road.

Crucially, the rules for crossing these lines depend on whether the lines are dashed or solid. If one of the two lines is solid, drivers on the side of the solid line are prohibited from crossing it, whereas those on the side of the dashed line may still overtake. Although the double marking is not officially anchored in the standard traffic sign catalog, it functions as an additional optical cue to increase driver awareness of upcoming road hazards.