In June of this year the law changed to allow learner drivers on the motorway, providing they are with a qualified instructor with dual controls who feels the pupil has the skills required. This blog post will give you a bit more information about what to expect during a motorway driving lesson.

We are quite lucky in the Kettering area to have the A14 as it is a dual carriageway with slip roads and, in part, three lanes. I will have taken all of my pupils on this road before we consider a motorway session. When you are able to make independent choices on the A14 without my guidance we’ll discuss the motorway. It is not a requirement that learners now have a motorway session so it is entirely your choice. I would recommend that everyone takes the opportunity if time and finances permit it, as it is invaluable to have an instructor with you the first time you make a motorway journey to help you understand the rules as set out by the Highway Code, and to provide you with the skills and reassurance that you may need when making journeys at higher speeds.

In order to get to the motorway from our area all pupils will need a 2 hours lesson (this is at the usual lesson price). During those 2 hours we will discuss how to prepare for your journey, including route planning and scheduling necessary rest breaks. We’ll then chat about some of the differences between the dual carriageway and the motorway, such as the hard shoulder and road signs. After this first discussion we’ll set off on the A14 towards the motorway (I usually use the M1 but this does vary depending on your location and roadworks). During the first section I will be taking you through the relevant decisions as appropriate and draw your attention to the various things we discussed earlier. We’ll be using your defensive driving skills to observe well and plan ahead.

Half way through the lesson we will exit the motorway and park up before discussing some of the more unusual motorway skills such as what to expect when there are roadworks or congestion, driving in adverse weather conditions and breakdown procedure. We’ll then head back along the motorway as we make for home. During this second drive I’ll test your knowledge a little to ensure you’re making good decisions and have understood the information which we have discussed. During this return drive you’ll hopefully drive unprompted, but as always everyone is different and we’ll be tailoring the lesson to suit your needs and learning style.

If you don’t fancy doing the motorway before your test I do offer this as an additional lesson once you have passed, or you can take the Pass Plus course, where motorway driving is a requirement. For more information about the Pass Plus see my previous blog post HERE.