Is Overtaking from the Left on the Highway Allowed? Here Are the Rules
JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Overtaking other vehicles on the highway should ideally be done from the right lane. However, in practice, drivers often have to overtake from the left due to various conditions, such as avoiding lane hogs.
So, what are the actual legal regulations and safety aspects regarding overtaking from the left?
Referring to official regulations, the rules for overtaking are detailed in Law No. 22 of 2009 on Road Traffic and Transportation (UU LLAJ), specifically Article 109.
“A motor vehicle driver overtaking another vehicle must use the right lane or road lane of the vehicle being overtaken, have clear visibility, and sufficient space.”
However, our law does not ignore dynamic conditions on the road. Article 109 (2) states an exception:
“In specific circumstances, the driver mentioned in paragraph (1) may use the left road lane while still considering road traffic safety and security.”
Founder of Jakarta Defensive Driving Consulting (JDDC), Jusri Pulubuhu, explains that from a safety perspective, overtaking from the left is still categorised as an unsafe action.
“However, in situations where there is a potential danger to ourselves or other road users, (overtaking from the left) is permitted,” Jusri told Kompas.com on Sunday, 31 May 2026.
Jusri cited real-world scenarios, such as lane hogs or large trucks moving slowly in the right lane. Conditions on the Jakarta-Cikampek Toll Road often force smaller vehicles to take the left lane for safety.
“Thus, smaller vehicle users there have no choice but to take the left lane due to the hazardous situation. It’s dangerous and could lead to accidents,” Jusri said.
Although legally permitted in “specific circumstances” or to avoid dangers from lane hogs, Jusri emphasised that this action must be carried out with extreme vigilance.
Drivers must ensure the left lane is safe, maintain proper distance, and avoid staying in the blind spot of the vehicle being overtaken for too long.
Once successfully overtaking, drivers are advised to return to the appropriate lane safely.