BOISE, ID – The Idaho State Police is working to clear up confusion surrounding the state’s updated passing law, which officially took effect on July 1.
Under the previous statute, drivers were allowed to exceed the speed limit by up to 15 miles per hour to safely pass another vehicle on a two-lane highway. However, this did not apply in areas with designated passing lanes.
With the passage of House Bill 205, the law now extends to include those designated passing lanes, such as those found on hills or mountainous stretches of highway. The update is intended to help drivers navigate slower traffic more safely when traditional passing zones are limited.
To legally exceed the speed limit under the new law, all of the following conditions must be met:
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The road must be a two-lane highway.
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A clearly marked passing lane must be available on the left.
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The vehicle being passed must be traveling below the posted speed limit.
The Idaho State Police emphasized that this is not blanket permission to speed, and certain restrictions still apply. The updated law does not apply:
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In areas where the speed limit is under 55 mph.
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When towing a trailer.
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When passing on the right.
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On interstate highways, which are not considered designated passing lanes under the statute.
Authorities are reminding drivers to remain cautious and use passing lanes responsibly.
“Drive safe, Idaho,” ISP wrote in its statement.
