What is the standard configuration of a hold-short line?

• A. Two solid lines and two dashed lines
• B. Four dashed lines
• C. Two dashed lines only
• D. Three solid lines and one dashed line

Answer: (A)

Hold-short lines mark the boundary at taxiway/runway intersections, showing where you must stop unless you have explicit clearance to cross. The standard configuration is two solid lines on the runway side and two dashed lines on the taxiway side. The solid lines indicate the boundary you must not cross without clearance, while the dashed lines indicate where crossing is permitted once ATC authorizes you to proceed. This two-solid, two-dashed pattern provides a clear, universal cue about when crossing is allowed and when you must hold, which is why it’s the correct configuration. Four dashed lines, four solid lines, or two dashed lines only wouldn’t correctly communicate the crossing boundary and clearance permissions.