When is passing other vehicles in the left lane permitted?

Passing other vehicles in the left lane is permitted when the street or highway has two or more lanes in the direction you are traveling. This rule is in place to facilitate safe overtaking of slower-moving vehicles. In multi-lane situations, the left lane is typically designated for passing, allowing drivers to maneuver around slower traffic efficiently.

The presence of multiple lanes is key here, as it provides the necessary space for safe passing. In contrast, if a roadway has only one lane in each direction, attempting to pass can lead to dangerous situations for both the passing vehicle and oncoming traffic. The other options focus on conditions that may be irrelevant or too restrictive; for instance, passing should not only be limited to when there are no nearby cars or simply on highways, but permitted broadly wherever the vehicle can safely pass in lanes that allow it. Signage indicating speed limits is important for driving safely but doesn't dictate the act of passing in the left lane itself.