Colorado Improper Passing and No-Passing Zones

Colorado law distinguishes passing oncoming vehicles, overtaking on the left, passing on the right and restricted left-side driving. A separate six-point category for improper passing in a no-passing zone took effect in 2026. This page summarizes the state provisions in effect on September 7, 2026.

Different passing provisions

Section 42-4-1002 addresses opposing vehicles passing to the right. On roads with room for only one lane in each direction, each driver gives the other at least half the main-traveled roadway as nearly as possible. Passing a same-direction, same-lane bicyclist with oncoming traffic requires both that roadway allocation and at least three feet of clearance from the motor vehicle's right side, including mirrors or projections, to the cyclist's left side. C.R.S. § 42-4-1002

Section 42-4-1003 generally governs overtaking on the left at a safe distance and returning right only when safely clear. It includes the three-foot bicycle clearance. Unless right-side passing is permitted, an overtaken driver gives way right on audible signal and does not accelerate until completely passed. These provisions remain subject to the related statutory limitations and exceptions. C.R.S. § 42-4-1003

Section 42-4-1004 permits right-side overtaking in specified circumstances: an overtaken vehicle making or indicating a left turn; qualifying unobstructed pavement, unoccupied by parked vehicles, marked for at least two lanes in each direction; or an unobstructed one-way roadway marked for at least two lanes. Safety remains required, and passing off the pavement or main-traveled roadway is prohibited. A separate three-foot rule covers a motor vehicle overtaking a same-direction bicyclist riding on the left side of a one-way roadway with at least two marked lanes. C.R.S. § 42-4-1004

Restricted left-side driving and exceptions

Section 42-4-1005 requires sufficient visibility and clear distance for authorized left-of-center overtaking without interference with approaching or overtaken vehicles. It requires return to an authorized lane as soon as practicable and, when an opposing-traffic lane is used, before coming within 200 feet of an approaching vehicle.

Its location restrictions cover hazardous obstructed views at grades or curves; within 100 feet of or while traversing intersections or railroad grade crossings; and obstructed views within 100 feet of bridges, viaducts or tunnels. Designated no-passing zones have an additional rule based on signs or pavement markings clearly visible to an ordinarily observant person. C.R.S. § 42-4-1005(1)-(3)

The section contains exceptions for one-way roadways, qualifying obstructions, certain left turns into or from alleys, private roads or driveways, and passing a same-direction bicyclist in the same lane. The turn and bicycle exceptions require safety without interfering with, impeding or endangering other lawful traffic. The obstruction cross-reference requires necessity and yielding to proper-direction traffic close enough to present an immediate hazard. Other applicable passing duties remain relevant. Section 1005(4) · Obstruction provision

Points and the August 2026 change

SB26-035 added the six-point category for infractions committed on or after August 12, 2026. The general four-point category remains. The relevant cutoff is the infraction date; earlier conduct requires the law applicable then. The act also amended the no-passing-zone marking language and added a CDOT signage-priority provision. Point schedule · Signed SB26-035, sections 2, 3 and 8

Points are assessed after conviction; accumulation periods use violation dates. These categories do not establish a particular driver's license outcome. C.R.S. § 42-2-127(2)(a)

General questions

Is every improper-passing allegation identical?

No. Sections 1002-1005 address different conduct and conditions. Each classifies its violations as class A traffic infractions.

Is passing on the right always prohibited?

No. Section 1004 identifies permitted circumstances while retaining its safety and roadway limits.

Does every yellow-line crossing violate section 1005?

That description omits the statutory zone conditions and exceptions. The provision cannot be summarized as an exceptionless ban.

Did all passing violations become six points?

No. The new category concerns improper passing in a no-passing zone. The general improper-passing entry remains four points.

Is the highway passing-lane rule the same provision?

No. Section 42-4-1013 separately regulates its defined passing lane on highways with limits of 65 mph or higher, subject to exceptions. Passing-lane provision

Related information

Traffic Violations Index · Traffic Tickets

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