Ohio's primary keep-right rule is found in Ohio Revised Code §4511.25.
On roadways of sufficient width, vehicles generally must be driven on the right half of the roadway unless a statutory exception applies.
Drivers may move left when overtaking and passing another vehicle traveling in the same direction, when making a lawful left turn, when avoiding an obstruction, when traveling on certain roadways divided into three or more marked lanes, or when traveling on a properly designated one-way roadway.
Ohio also requires drivers to obey official lane-use markings and traffic-control devices. On marked multi-lane roadways, a vehicle generally must remain as nearly as practicable within a single lane and may not move from that lane until the driver has determined that the movement can be made safely.
In addition, Ohio law prohibits operating a vehicle at an unreasonably slow speed when doing so impedes or blocks the normal and reasonable movement of traffic, unless the reduced speed is necessary for safe operation or required by law.
Ohio therefore does not have a broad statewide rule making the left lane exclusively a passing lane on every multi-lane roadway. Instead, drivers must follow the general keep-right rule, marked-lane requirements, posted lane restrictions and the separate prohibition against unnecessarily impeding traffic.
Exceptions
- Overtaking and passing another vehicle traveling in the same direction.
- Making a lawful left turn.
- Avoiding an obstruction when moving left is necessary and safe.
- Traveling on a roadway divided into three or more marked lanes under the applicable lane rules.
- Traveling on a roadway designated and posted for one-way traffic.
- Following the direction of a police officer or official traffic-control device.
Penalties
A violation of Ohio Revised Code §4511.25 is generally a minor misdemeanor.
If the driver has one qualifying prior motor-vehicle or traffic offense within the preceding year, the offense may be elevated to a fourth-degree misdemeanor. With two or more qualifying prior offenses within one year, it may be elevated to a third-degree misdemeanor.
If distracted driving contributes to the violation, an additional fine of up to $100 may apply under Ohio law.
Official Source
Ohio Revised Code §§4511.25, 4511.22 and 4511.33 - Keep Right, Slow Speed and Marked Lane Rules
Last verified: October 10, 2026