Learner drivers have never been allowed to drive on motorways, but from Monday 4 June 2018, learner drivers will be able to take driving lessons on motorways.
Learner drivers will need to be accompanied by an Approved Driving Instructor in a dual controlled car. Motorway lessons are not mandatory and therefore remain the decision of the driving instructor regarding when the learner driver is competent enough for motorway lessons.
This will better prepare potential drivers on how to drive at high speeds, maintain lane discipline and overtake when required on multi-lane roads. The purpose of this exercise is to help improve overall safety, awareness and anticipation of the actions of other drivers at high speed.
The change only applies to learner car drivers and it is important to remember that it is still illegal for a learner that is not accompanied by a driving instructor to drive on a motorway.
Trainee driving instructors are not allowed to take learner drivers on the motorway.
At this stage, motorway driving is not part of the driving test.
It may prove beneficial and practical to first practice on a dual carriageway because similar rules apply.
Some examples regarding learning goals to achieve on motorways are training on how to join and leave the motorway, overtake and use lanes correctly, practise driving at higher speeds, understand motorway specific traffic signs and understand what to do if a vehicle breaks down on a motorway.
These changes will help learner drivers develop a broader driving experience before taking their driving test and improve their confidence to drive on the motorway unsupervised after passing their driving test.
For more information on Intensive Driving Courses call: Tel: 03330110391 or Click: Pass now Ltd
