Italian category B road test: judging when to overtake

On the Italian category B road test, an overtake is appropriate only when it is permitted and can be completed without danger or obstruction. Check visibility, available space, vehicles ahead and behind, and road signs. If any condition is unclear, stay behind; you do not have to overtake at all costs.

Decide before moving out

Article 148 requires a driver to check that visibility is sufficient, the driver ahead has not indicated an overtake, and no vehicle behind or in the left lane has already begun one. There must also be enough clear road to finish, taking account of relative speed and oncoming traffic. A solid line, a prohibition or another Highway Code condition may prevent overtaking even when the road looks empty.

The examiner may observe how you respond to a slow vehicle, but you are not required to pass it. For example, if visibility is limited behind a bend, keep a safe distance instead of moving towards the centre. Reassess when the road is clear and markings allow; otherwise continue behind. Do not speed up to make up for a missed opportunity.

Finish without cutting others off

When overtaking is permitted and safe, signal, keep adequate side clearance and return to the right as soon as you can without cutting in front of the vehicle you passed. The overtaken driver must not accelerate, but you still have to judge the space carefully. Specific restrictions apply near crossings, junctions, level crossings, bends and crests, with only limited exceptions in the law.

Practise with your instructor to recognise when there is genuinely enough room; you do not need to repeat the manoeuvre on every lesson. You can explain what you see and why you are waiting: choosing caution is a driving decision. If the examiner gives a direction, do not turn it into a risky overtake; safety and the rules still come first.

Review Italian priority, overtaking restrictions and signs with Quiz Patente Ufficiale.