If you have ever been stuck behind a slower vehicle in the left lane on a California freeway, you have likely wondered: Isn’t there a law against that?
Yes — there is. California Vehicle Code 21654 addresses when drivers traveling slower than the normal flow of traffic must use the right-hand lane.
This guide provides a complete, original, and easy-to-understand explanation of CVC § 21654, including how it works, when it applies, penalties for violations, common misunderstandings, and what to do if you receive a ticket.
What Is California Vehicle Code 21654?
California Vehicle Code § 21654 requires drivers who are traveling slower than the normal speed of traffic to drive in the right-hand lane or as close as practical to the right-hand edge of the roadway.
The law applies when:
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You are driving more slowly than surrounding traffic, and
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There is more than one lane moving in the same direction.
In Simple Terms
If you are driving slower than other vehicles on a multi-lane road, you generally must move to the right lane — unless you are:
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Passing another vehicle, or
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Preparing to make a left turn.
The purpose of this rule is to maintain traffic flow and reduce unsafe lane changes caused by slower vehicles blocking faster lanes.
Why This Law Exists
CVC § 21654 is designed to improve safety and reduce congestion. Here is why it matters:
1. Prevents Traffic Bottlenecks
When slower vehicles remain in the middle or left lanes, faster-moving vehicles are forced to brake or change lanes, which creates backups.
2. Reduces Aggressive Driving
Left-lane “camping” often leads to tailgating, unsafe passing, and road rage.
3. Improves Traffic Flow Efficiency
Traffic engineering studies show that consistent lane usage — slower traffic to the right, faster traffic to the left — improves roadway efficiency.
When Does California Vehicle Code 21654 Apply?
The key phrase in the law is:
“Proceeding at a speed less than the normal speed of traffic.”
This means the rule is based on the flow of traffic, not just the posted speed limit.
Important Clarification
You can be driving at the speed limit and still violate this law if traffic is flowing faster and you remain in a lane other than the right lane without justification.
For example:
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If traffic is moving at 65 mph and you are traveling at 50 mph in the left lane, you may be cited.
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If you are driving 65 mph but the majority of traffic is flowing at 75 mph and you are blocking the left lane, an officer may determine you are impeding traffic.
The law does not require speeding. It requires slower vehicles to move right when it is safe to do so.
When You Are Allowed to Use the Left Lane
There are important exceptions built into the law.
You May Be in the Left or Middle Lane If:
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You are actively passing another vehicle.
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You are preparing to make a left-hand turn.
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Traffic conditions prevent you from safely merging right.
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The right lane is unsafe or blocked.
The law does not require unsafe lane changes. Safety always comes first.
Two-Lane Roads vs. Multi-Lane Highways
CVC § 21654 primarily applies to highways and roads with multiple lanes moving in the same direction.
On two-lane highways (one lane each direction), a different law — California Vehicle Code § 21656 — may require slow drivers to pull over at designated turnouts if five or more vehicles are backed up behind them.
This distinction is important because drivers often confuse the two rules.
What Counts as “Impeding Traffic”?
A driver may be considered in violation if:
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They are traveling significantly slower than surrounding vehicles.
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They remain in a lane other than the right lane.
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There is space and opportunity to move safely to the right.
Officers often look for patterns such as:
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A visible line of vehicles building behind a slower car.
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Vehicles repeatedly changing lanes to get around one slow driver.
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Obvious obstruction of traffic flow.
Each situation is evaluated based on roadway conditions, traffic volume, and safety factors.
Penalties for Violating California Vehicle Code 21654
A violation of California Vehicle Code § 21654 is typically treated as an infraction.
Possible Consequences Include:
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A traffic ticket and fine (often several hundred dollars after fees are added).
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One point added to your California DMV driving record.
Why the DMV Point Matters
Accumulating points can lead to:
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Increased insurance premiums.
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Negligent operator designation.
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Potential license suspension if too many points are accumulated within a specific timeframe.
Even a single point can have financial consequences over time due to higher insurance rates.
Common Misunderstandings About the Law
Myth #1: “The Left Lane Is Only for Speeding”
False. The law does not authorize speeding. It regulates lane position based on traffic flow.
Myth #2: “If I’m Going the Speed Limit, I Can Stay in Any Lane”
Not necessarily. If you are moving slower than the normal speed of traffic and you are not passing or preparing to turn left, you may still be required to move right.
Myth #3: “Police Never Enforce This Law”
While enforcement may vary by area, officers do issue citations under this section, particularly when slow driving creates a clear obstruction or safety hazard.
Examples
Scenario 1: Freeway Driving
You are driving 55 mph in the middle lane. Traffic is flowing around 70 mph. The right lane is open.
You may be required to move into the right lane.
Scenario 2: Passing a Truck
You move into the left lane to pass a semi-truck going 50 mph.
This is legal — as long as you return to the right lane once the pass is complete.
Scenario 3: Preparing for a Left Exit
You move left in advance of a left-side freeway exit.
This is permitted under the law.
How to Avoid a Ticket Under California Vehicle Code 21654
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Monitor your speed relative to surrounding traffic.
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Avoid staying in the left lane longer than necessary.
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After passing, merge safely back to the right.
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Stay aware of traffic building up behind you.
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Always prioritize safe lane changes.
Good lane discipline protects both your driving record and other motorists.
Can You Fight a California Vehicle Code 21654 Ticket?
Yes. Depending on the circumstances, possible defenses may include:
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You were actively passing another vehicle.
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You were preparing to turn left.
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It was unsafe to merge right.
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Traffic conditions did not allow lane changes.
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The officer misjudged traffic flow.
Each case depends on specific facts. Traffic law violations are not always as straightforward as they appear.
Why Understanding This Law Matters
Many drivers assume slow driving is always safer. While driving cautiously is important, driving significantly slower than surrounding traffic in the wrong lane can create hazards.
Proper lane usage:
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Reduces sudden braking.
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Prevents dangerous weaving.
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Improves overall roadway safety.
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Helps avoid unnecessary citations.
Understanding CVC § 21654 ensures you are not unintentionally violating the law while trying to drive responsibly.
Need Help With a California Vehicle Code 21654 Ticket?
If you have been cited for Slow Vehicle Not Driving on the Right under California Vehicle Code § 21654, you do not have to handle it alone. Traffic tickets can lead to fines, DMV points, and increased insurance costs — but you may have legal options. The experienced traffic defense team at Southwest Legal can review your citation, explain your rights, and help you determine the best course of action. Contact us today if you want to protect your driving record and explore your options. Acting quickly may improve your chances of reducing or dismissing your citation. Your driving record matters. Get the legal guidance you deserve.
