Motorway Lessons: 7 Things You Need To Know

With June 4th upon us here’s a handy 7 things to know about the change in the law:

From today, approved driving instructors give learner drivers lessons on the motorway in a car with dual controls.

You cannot offer motorway lessons if you're a trainee instructor.

1.  Lessons are voluntary

Driving instructor and pupil

Any driving lessons on the motorway are voluntary.

We know that some people won't want to take lessons on the motorway or don't live close enough to one for it to be practical. But it's a good opportunity to develop your pupils' skills and experience.

2. Check the NASP guidelines

Driving instructor and pupil

The driving instructor's National Associations Strategic Partnership (NASP) guidelines can help you know when your pupils are ready and what you should teach them during lessons.

3. The Highway Code has changed

Driving instructor and pupil

Rules 253 of The Highway Code has been updated to explain learner drivers are allowed on the motorway with an ADI in a car with dual controls.

4.  Displaying L plates

Driving instructor and pupil

You can decide if you want to use your driving school rooftop box during motorway lessons, based on its instructions.

Your car will need L plates on the front and rear if you remove the rooftop box.

5.  Pass Plus continues

Driving instructor and pupil

You can still offer Pass Plus lessons to your pupils if you're registered.

Pass Plus lessons are a good way for your pupils to gain more experience driving in different conditions.

6.  ‘Motorway Driving' ebook

Driving instructor and pupil

This ebook provides the latest advice and information on how to drive safely and confidently on the motorway. It's a great resource for both new and experienced drivers

7.  Special roads

Driving instructor and pupil

Some A roads or sections of A roads are classed as 'special roads'. This means that certain types of road user are not allowed to use them.

Traffic signs show which road users cannot use them. There are some special roads that do not allow learner drivers on them.

The change in law does not extend to special roads. So, if a traffic sign shows that learner drivers are not allowed on a road, this still applies from 4 June 2018.

Check with the highways authority who operates the road if you're in any doubt.