Learner drivers are to have lessons on UK motorways in a bid to improve road safety, the Department for Transport (DfT) has announced.
The law change will be active from 2018, when learners will be allowed on motorways with an approved driving instructor in a dual control car. This will provide a broader range of real life experiences and better prepare learners for independent driving when they pass their test.
“The UK has some of safest roads in the world and we want to make them even safer,” said Transport Secretary Chris Grayling. “Younger drivers are up to seven times more likely to be killed or seriously injured compared with drivers over twenty-five and lack of experience is an important factor. Allowing learners to drive on motorways in a supportive environment will help them develop a practical understanding of how to use motorways safely before driving independently.”
Current legislation does not allow learners to drive on a motorway until after they have passed their test. This means the first experience of motorway driving for many is as a new driver without the guidance of a driving instructor or the safety of a dual control car.
The DfT consulted on the changes earlier this year, receiving wide support from both learner drivers and approved driving instructors.
