North Carolina's primary keep-right rule is found in General Statute §20-146.
Under the law, a vehicle traveling at less than the legal maximum speed limit generally must be driven in the right-hand lane available for through traffic, or as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the highway.
The rule does not require a driver to remain right while overtaking and passing another vehicle traveling in the same direction or while preparing to make a left turn.
North Carolina also has a specific rule for divided highways where appropriate signs such as “Slower Traffic Keep Right” have been posted. On those roadways, a driver may not operate in the inside lane next to the median at less than the posted speed limit when doing so impedes the steady flow of traffic, except when preparing for a left turn.
In addition, North Carolina law generally requires vehicles to stay on the right half of the roadway unless an exception applies, such as passing another vehicle, avoiding an obstruction, using a properly marked three-lane roadway or traveling on a one-way roadway.
Beginning December 1, 2025, North Carolina also restricts vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more from using the leftmost lane of certain controlled-access highways with six or more lanes, subject to statutory exceptions. A further amendment enacted in 2026 changes that truck-lane restriction effective December 1, 2026.
Exceptions
- Overtaking and passing another vehicle traveling in the same direction.
- Preparing to make a left turn.
- Avoiding an obstruction when it is necessary and safe to move left.
- Traveling on a roadway whose lane configuration or traffic-control devices lawfully permit another lane position.
Penalties
Violations of North Carolina's keep-right and related lane-use provisions are generally handled as traffic infractions. The exact amount owed can depend on the specific charge, court costs and the circumstances of the case.
North Carolina also treats violation of the heavy-vehicle left-lane restriction in §20-146(f) as an infraction.
Because court costs and total amounts can change and may vary depending on how the citation is resolved, drivers should verify the amount shown on their citation or through the North Carolina Judicial Branch.
Official Source
North Carolina General Statute §20-146 - Drive on Right Side of Highway; Exceptions
Last verified: October 10, 2026