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Motorways are high-speed, multi-lane roads designed for long-distance travel and capable of handling large traffic volumes. They are identified by blue road signs and are legally restricted from use by pedestrians, cyclists, mobility scooters, agricultural vehicles, and learner drivers (unless they are driving with an approved instructor in a dual-controlled car).
Motorways include:
The speed limit on UK Motorways varies depending on the vehicle type and whether there are signs indicating a change in speed, which often happens if there are road works, an accident or bad weather.
The speed limits are the following:
Remember: speed limits are maximums, not targets. Drivers should always adjust to traffic, weather, and visibility conditions.
Understanding motorway signage is a must when learning how to drive. A motorway sign is typically blue with white text and symbols, but they can differ. Here are the essential signs and their meanings:
Blue background signs provide directions, junction numbers and destinations.
These appear on smart motorways or overhead gantries. They display a suggested maximum speed. They are not legally enforceable unless displayed inside a red circle.
These signs are shown on overhead gantries, which display temporary limits that are legally enforceable. This could be due to road works, an accident or bad weather.
A green arrow means that the lane is open. If you are to see a red cross (X), then this indicates that the lane is closed and therefore you need to safely change lanes immediately.
These signs indicate that there is an SOS layby in which you can safely indicate to move over. There will be a telephone that you can use to call the National Highways control for assistance.
These signs are shown when a service area is approaching. This can be rest stops for fuel, food and parking.
A motorway exit sign shows an approaching junction with road numbers and destinations. They are positioned 1 mile before the exit, 0.5 mile before and at the exit slip road.
Driving on a motorway can seem daunting for new drivers, and it is advised (if possible) to practice with your qualified driving instructor in a dual car. The key is understanding the rules, observing traffic behaviour, and maintaining your safety and confidence.
Before you join the motorway, it is always best to know your route in advance. Motorway navigation can be stressful if you are uncertain about junctions. Using a satnav or checking the route ahead helps avoid last-minute decisions. You also want to make sure you have enough fuel before going on the motorway and have knowledge of where the next petrol station is.
Slip roads are designed to help you increase speed (usually between 50-70 mph) to match the traffic already on the motorway. Use the mirror-signal-manoeuvre (MSM) routine and don’t forget to check your blind spots before safely merging into the first lane.
Good practice on a motorway is primarily about maintaining consistent lane discipline and safely overtaking when necessary.
Always remember to use your mirrors carefully when changing lanes and signal to let others know your intentions. You should always reposition yourself back to the left-hand lane once you have safely overtaken, rather than remaining in the middle or right-hand lanes, as this can cause congestion.
Higher speeds mean longer stopping distances between you and the car in front. In dry conditions, you need to remain at least 2 seconds behind the vehicle in front, in wet conditions, at least 4 seconds and in icy conditions, you need to leave a much larger gap between the vehicle in front (up to 10 times the normal distance) at a reduced speed.
Smart motorways are a modern development from standard motorways and are designed to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion. A smart motorway uses electronic systems, cameras and sensors to control traffic, detect breakdowns and accidents. This allows traffic officers to respond quickly to avoid longer congestion.
There are three main types of smart motorways in the UK:
The rules for smart motorways are the same as standard, but with some additional regulations:
Motorways during a driving test
During your practical driving test, motorways are not included for learners; however, examiners can guide you to similar high-speed situations, such as dual carriageways. Many driving instructors will recommend having at least one lesson on the motorway before driving independently once you have passed your driving test.
The standard speed limit on UK motorways is 70 mph for cars and motorcycles. However, different limits apply to other vehicles, such as vehicles towing trailers, large goods vehicles and buses/coaches that should keep to 60 mph maximum.
Speed limits may apply on smart motorways and during roadworks.
Yes, but with certain conditions. Learner drivers must be with a qualified driving instructor in a dual-controlled car. Learner drivers can not go on the motorway alone, and it is not part of the practical driving test.
No, motorway driving is not part of the practical driving test. However, dual carriageways with similar speeds may be included. Many instructors recommend taking additional motorway lessons after passing the test.
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