Learner drivers are now allowed to practice on motorways in England, Scotland, and Wales under the supervision of an approved driving instructor in a car with dual controls. This change, implemented in June 2018, aims to equip new drivers with the necessary skills and confidence to navigate motorways safely.
Motorway Driving Lessons for Learners: Rules and Guidelines
The ability for learner drivers to practice on motorways is a significant change to previous regulations. Here’s a breakdown of the key aspects:
Eligibility for Motorway Lessons
- Approved Driving Instructor: Learner drivers must be accompanied by an approved driving instructor who is qualified and experienced in motorway driving instruction.
- Dual Controls: The vehicle used for motorway lessons must be fitted with dual controls, allowing the instructor to intervene if necessary.
- Instructor’s Discretion: Motorway lessons remain voluntary. The driving instructor assesses the learner’s competency and decides when they are ready for this advanced training.
Restrictions for Motorway Lessons
- Car Learners Only: This change applies only to learner car drivers. Learner motorcyclists are still prohibited from practicing on motorways.
- Not Included in Driving Test: While motorway driving is now part of the learning process, it’s not yet a component of the driving test itself.
- Trainee Instructors Excluded: Trainee driving instructors are not permitted to take learner drivers onto motorways.
Driving school car
Preparing for Motorway Driving Lessons
Several resources are available to support both learner drivers and instructors in preparing for motorway lessons:
- Updated Highway Code: The Highway Code has been revised to incorporate specific rules and guidance for motorway driving. Familiarizing oneself with these rules is crucial for all road users.
- Learning Materials and Syllabus: Learning resources and the driving syllabus have been updated to include information and instruction on motorway driving techniques.
- Best Practice Guidance for Instructors: The National Associations Strategic Partnership, a driving instructor association, offers best practice guidelines specifically designed for instructors teaching motorway lessons. (Download ‘Motorway Tuition Guidelines’).
Benefits of Motorway Training for Learners
Allowing learner drivers to practice on motorways offers significant benefits:
- Real-World Experience: It provides practical experience in a controlled environment before independent driving.
- Essential Skills Development: Learners gain proficiency in crucial skills like merging onto the motorway, lane changes, overtaking safely, and responding to high-speed driving situations.
- Increased Confidence: Early exposure to motorway driving helps build confidence and reduces anxiety for new drivers.
- Understanding Specific Signage: Learners can familiarize themselves with motorway-specific traffic signs and signals.
- Breakdown Procedure Knowledge: Training includes instruction on how to handle breakdowns and emergencies on the motorway.
Sharing the Motorway with Learner Drivers
Other road users should be aware of the presence of learner drivers on motorways and exercise patience and caution. Maintaining a safe following distance is essential, especially in adverse weather conditions. Remember that learner drivers are still developing their skills and may react differently to traffic situations.
Conclusion
The introduction of motorway driving lessons for learner drivers is a positive step towards improving road safety and driver preparedness. By providing comprehensive training and practical experience under expert guidance, this initiative empowers new drivers with the skills and confidence they need to navigate motorways safely and efficiently. This change ultimately contributes to a safer driving environment for everyone.
