Learner drivers in England, Scotland and Wales, are allowed to drive on the motorway, but a fully qualified driving instructor must accompany them.
As of 4 June 2018, the law surrounding learner drivers driving on UK motorways changed to allow them to learn how to drive on motorways.
Before, you could only have a motorway lesson if you had passed your test; however, this now allows you to become confident driving on the motorway before you pass your test.
How to drive on the motorway?
When it comes to motorway driving, it can be daunting, especially on your first few journeys.
With some motorways having four lanes, you can find yourself surrounded by numerous cars that can cause you to feel overwhelmed, but your instructor will only take you on a motorway if they know you can do it safely.
When driving on a motorway, you cannot exceed 70mph, stick in the left-hand lane (unless you are overtaking or letting people enter the road) and maintain the distance from the car in front.
Your driving instructor will be able to cover the topic in greater detail, but it is essential to remember that as long as you drive safely and sensibly, you will be safe on the motorway.
Can you drive on the motorway with L plates?
If you are a learner driver, you must have L plates fitted to your car before you hit the road. If you are learning with us in Drive Auto London, all our driving instructor’s cars will be equipped with dual controls, a roof sign and learner plates.
Due to this, your car will be up to the required standards if you are having an automatic driving lesson in London or on a motorway.
However, you would not be able to drive on the motorway as a learner if you are with a family member or friend, as you can only drive on the motorway with a fully qualified driving instructor.
Is it safe to drive on the motorway?
Driving on a motorway is perfectly safe, and once you have had your first taste of motorway driving, you will instantly feel more comfortable.
Driving on a motorway is very safe, and our instructors will not take you onto a motorway if you are not ready or comfortable.
It may seem daunting, but another lane is the main difference between a motorway and a dual carriageway. Once you gain experience and understand how to stay safe, you will be incredibly confident to tackle any motorway.
What are smart motorways?
Smart motorways are the same as regular motorways. However, they use technology to help ease congestion and regulate traffic flow.
You will not be able to tell the difference between a standard and a smart motorway; however, you will be given more details on what speed to travel at to help traffic flow.
If you are comfortable driving on a standard or smart motorway, you can confidently drive on the other.
You can view our prices for an automatic driving instructor here, and you can see the areas we cover here.
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