Oklahoma's primary keep-right and left-lane rules are found in 47 O.S. §§11-301 and 11-309.
Under §11-301, a vehicle traveling at less than the normal speed of traffic under the existing conditions generally must be driven in the right-hand lane when available, or as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway.
The slower-traffic rule does not apply when the driver is overtaking and passing another vehicle traveling in the same direction or when preparing for a lawful left turn.
Oklahoma also has a specific left-lane rule in §11-309. A vehicle generally may not be driven in the left lane except when overtaking and passing another vehicle.
The law allows left-lane travel when traffic conditions, traffic flow or roadway configuration, including merging traffic, makes use of the left lane necessary to maintain safe traffic conditions.
The statewide left-lane restriction also contains exceptions for certain roads within municipal limits and county roads that are not part of the Interstate Highway System or a turnpike.
Oklahoma therefore goes beyond a traditional slower-traffic keep-right rule by directly restricting ordinary left-lane travel on many multilane highways.
Exceptions
- Overtaking and passing another vehicle traveling in the same direction.
- Preparing for a lawful left turn.
- Traffic conditions or traffic flow make left-lane travel necessary.
- Roadway configuration, including merging traffic, makes left-lane use appropriate for safety.
- Certain roadways inside municipal limits.
- Certain county roads that are not part of the Interstate Highway System or a turnpike.
- Following official signs that designate particular lanes for traffic.
Penalties
Violations of Oklahoma's keep-right and lane-use laws may result in a traffic citation.
Service Oklahoma's current violation code book separately identifies failure to keep right, impeding traffic and failure to keep in the proper lane as traffic offenses under §11-301.
The exact fine and total amount due can depend on the particular violation and court assessments, so drivers should verify the amount shown on the citation or with the court handling the case.
Official Source
47 O.S. §§11-301 and 11-309 - Keep Right and Left-Lane Rules
Last verified: October 11, 2026