Guidance reviewed: 24 September 2026
Motorway traffic usually moves faster than traffic on other roads, leaving less time to react. Look and plan well ahead, use your mirrors early and leave enough space to respond safely.
Can learner drivers use motorways?
A car learner can drive on a motorway only when accompanied by a fully qualified DVSA approved driving instructor, in a dual-control car displaying red L plates or Welsh D plates. Motorway lessons are voluntary and motorway driving is not part of the practical driving test. A learner must not practise on a motorway with a family member or friend.
Joining safely
- Give priority to traffic already on the motorway.
- Use the slip road to observe the traffic and adjust your speed so that you can join the left lane safely.
- Do not cross a solid white line or use the hard shoulder to force your way into traffic.
- If the slip road continues as an extra lane, remain in that lane and follow the signs and markings.
Use the correct lane
Keep in the left lane unless you are overtaking. Before changing lanes, check your mirrors carefully, judge the speed of approaching traffic, take a quick sideways glance into the blind spot and signal in good time. Overtake on the right and return to the left when it is safe. Look out for motorcycles and allow large vehicles plenty of room.
Keep a safe distance
Leave at least a two-second gap from the vehicle ahead on a high-speed road. At least double the gap on wet roads and allow a much larger gap on ice. Increase the distance whenever visibility, traffic or road conditions require it. If another driver follows too closely, keep a steady course and let them pass when it is safe; do not brake sharply to confront them.
Signs, speed and tiredness
- Obey displayed speed limits and never treat the limit as a target when conditions make a lower speed safer.
- Never drive in a lane marked with a red X.
- Use the hard shoulder only in an emergency or when signs or authorised officers direct you to use it.
- Plan breaks before tiredness affects your concentration. If you miss an exit, continue to the next one; never reverse or turn around.
If the vehicle develops a problem
Leave at the next junction or reach a service area if possible. If you cannot, move left into an emergency area or onto the hard shoulder where available, stop as far left as possible and switch on the hazard warning lights. Follow the Highway Code’s current breakdown procedure; if you cannot reach a place of relative safety or leave the vehicle safely, keep your seat belt on, switch on the hazard lights and call 999.