Road markings in Ireland play a vital role in ensuring road safety and smooth traffic flow. According to the Irish Government, road markings provide a guide for drivers on what they can and can’t do while on the road, while also warning drivers about what’s ahead.
Under the rules of the road, there are a number of road markings that drivers must obey and each have a different meaning. It’s important for both local road users, and those who are visiting Ireland to understand the road markings to help keep our roads safe.
To help clarify any confusion around what Irish road markings mean, we've created this guide explaining the key road markings in Ireland, focusing on the two main types: Yellow Lines and White Lines.
White lines
Double or single continuous white line
A double or single continuous white line in the middle of the road separating traffic indicates to a driver that overtaking is prohibited. Drivers should never cross this line unless in the case of an emergency, or to avoid an obstruction.
Broken white line
There are two main types of broken white lines that drivers need to know in Ireland. The first is short broken white lines in the middle of the road - this indicates to the driver that they may overtake providing it is safe to do so.
The second type of broken white line, which is a longer broken white line with shorter spaces in between, indicates that there may be a hazard approaching, such as a restricted view or a roundabout. A driver may still overtake on these lines providing it is safe to do so.
Stop lines
A continuous white line at an intersection or junction indicates to the driver that they should slow down and come to a complete stop before proceeding. Usually, these lines are accompanied, by the word STOP written on the road near or at the stop line or, by a red ‘STOP’ road sign.
Zig zag lines
Chevron Zones, which may look like white zig zag lines on the road, indicate to the driver that they are approaching a pedestrian crossing. Drivers cannot park or overtake in this area.
Yellow lines
Single yellow line
A single yellow line along the side of the road indicates to a driver that parking is restricted at certain times. Usually, there will be an accompanying sign above this line that provides further details on when parking isn’t allowed.
Double yellow lines
Double yellow lines in Ireland indicate that parking is prohibited at all times. This means that drivers should not park or temporarily stop along this road, at any time.
Broken yellow line
A broken yellow line along the side of the road indicates a ‘hard shoulder’.
On national and local roads, the hard shoulder is reserved for use by pedestrians or cyclists. Vehicles can also briefly cross this line, when it’s safe to do so, to allow other faster moving vehicles to safely overtake them.
On motorways, it is an offence to drive on the hard shoulder. It should only be used in the event of an emergency or a breakdown.
Yellow box junction
A yellow box with yellow criss-cross lines at an intersection indicates to the driver that they cannot enter the box unless their exit is clear. The only exception to this rule is if the driver is turning right, and in this case the driver can enter the yellow box while waiting for a gap in the oncoming traffic. It’s important to note that when doing this, you should not block the traffic that has the right of way.
Whether you are a learner driver, or have already passed your test, understanding the different types of road markings is important to ensure safe driving in Ireland. Always pay attention to the lines on the road, consult the rules of the road handbook, and ensure you are equipped with the right car insurance so that you can navigate the road confidently with peace of mind knowing that you are protected.
