Can cars from both directions use a median turning lane?

Yes. It serves right turns for traffic both ways, so an oncoming car may already be waiting in it.

May I enter the median lane if an oncoming car is already in it?

Yes, but go in carefully and be ready to slow down and stop.

Road scene · Lane and overtaking scenes

A painted median turning lane shared by both directions

Use the centre turning lane to wait for a right turn, ready for oncoming drivers using it too.

Asked in general knowledgeShown in 2 practice questions

What it means

A painted median turning lane shared by both directions: what is the rule?

A wide road has a painted lane in its centre, between the two directions of traffic. The plate-yellow car has moved into it and follows a yellow path to turn right into a street on the right. Just below, a white car heading the other way is in the very same lane, signalling to turn into a street on its own right. Drivers from both directions share this space, so either may meet the other in it.

What to do

1
Signal right and move into the median lane slowly.
2
Be ready to slow or stop for a car already in it from the other direction.
3
Wait in the lane until there is a safe gap in the traffic you are crossing.

Practice questions with this scene

You move into a painted median turning lane to turn right into a driveway. What should you be ready for?

Right.Not quite. The answer is B.

A median turning lane can be used by traffic from both directions, so enter it slowly and be ready to stop.

Source: Road Rules 2014 (NSW)

You want to turn right using a painted median turning lane, and an oncoming car is already in it, slowing to turn. May you enter?

Right.Not quite. The answer is B.

Drivers from both directions may share a median turning lane. Enter carefully and be ready to give way.

Source: Transport for NSW Road User Handbook

Common questions

Can cars from both directions use a median turning lane?: Yes. It serves right turns for traffic both ways, so an oncoming car may already be waiting in it.
May I enter the median lane if an oncoming car is already in it?: Yes, but go in carefully and be ready to slow down and stop.

More in lane and overtaking scenes

NSW Learner mock exam screen: 45 questions, no time limit, two sections with their pass marks

A practice question in NSW Learner answered correctly, with the explanation card

Your L plate turns green when you would pass

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