A driver can use a shared left turn lane (also called a center left turn lane or two-way left turn lane) primarily to:

• Prepare for and make a left turn from either direction on a two-way street.
• Make a U-turn if permitted.
• Turn left onto a highway or from a highway onto another road.
• Enter the lane shortly before the turn and wait safely for a gap in oncoming traffic.
• Use the lane to wait without blocking through traffic while waiting to turn.

However, drivers should not:

• Drive in the shared left turn lane for long distances.
• Use the lane to pass other vehicles.
• Block through traffic by stopping partially in the lane.
• Speed or use it as a regular travel lane.

When using the shared left turn lane, the driver should:

• Signal well in advance (about 100 feet before the turn).
• Check mirrors and blind spots.
• Yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians.
• Enter the lane fully without blocking traffic.
• Wait for a safe gap before completing the left turn.
• Be aware that vehicles from the opposite direction may also be using the lane to turn left.

The lane is marked by solid yellow lines on the outside and broken yellow lines on the inside, and is located in the middle of the road between two directions of travel

. In summary, a shared left turn lane is designed to facilitate safe left turns and U-turns without impeding traffic flow, but it is not a passing or travel lane and should be used only briefly when preparing to turn left