Learner drivers to be allowed on Motorways in England, Scotland and Wales from Monday 4 June 2018

Thurs, 1st March, 2018

Learner drivers will be allowed on motorways in England, Scotland and Wales from Monday 4 June 2018

Currently, you can only take motorway lessons after you have passed your driving test.

Some newly-qualified drivers take lessons through the voluntary Pass Plus scheme.

learners on motorways

However, not all Learner Car Drivers will be able to learn on the Motorways.

There are special rules put in place.

  • Learner Drivers need to be accompanied by an Approved Driving Instructor (Trainee driving instructors won’t be allowed to take learner drivers on the motorway).
  • Driving a car fitted with dual controls.
  • The car will need to display L plates on the front and rear if the rooftop box is removed. Many top boxes can be used at high speed, but it is advisable that instructors check with the manufacturer about the maximum rated speed.
  • You need to be 'TEST READY' and all other aspects of driving has been covered. It is recommended that motorway practical training takes place near to the end of a learner’s pre-test training.
  • Driving Schools have to check that their insurance company includes comprehensive cover on motorways.

If you live in a area with no motorway access, Don't worry. ask your instructor to cover the topic as a theory session, in discussion with Q&A, or set as homework, to be followed up with discussion during lessons.

The Goverment hopes these changes are being made to allow learner drivers to:

  • get broader driving experience before taking their driving test
  • get training on how to join and leave the motorway, overtake and use lanes correctly
  • practise driving at higher speeds
  • understand motorway specific traffic signs
  • understand what to do if a vehicle breaks down on a motorway
  • improve their confidence to drive on the motorway unsupervised after passing their driving test