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Learners to be allowed on motorways with an approved instructor from 2018
Learner drivers will be allowed on motorways for lessons in a bid to improve road safety.
At the moment, novice drivers can’t use the motorway unti l they have passed their test.
But from 2018, the law will change to allow them access in a dual-control car with an approved driving instructor.
Transport Secretary Chris Grayling, who introduced the new legislation, said: “The UK has some of safest roads in the world and we want to make them even safer.
“Younger drivers are up to seven times more likely to be ki l led or seriously injured compared with drivers over 25 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 us e motorways safely before driving independently.”
The Government believe the move will help reduce casualties by giving learners early experience of motorway driving.
RAC road safety spokesman Pete Williams said :“We welcome the news that learner drivers will be allowed to take lessons on the motorway under the supervision of an approved driving instructor in a dualcontrolled car – something motorists we surveyed were overwhelmingly supportive of.
“While motorways are statistically our safest roads, it can be daunting using them for the first time after passing the driving test.
“Giving learners the option to gain valuable experience on our fastest and busiest roads should improve safety and enhance the confidence of new drivers.”
The Depar tment for Transport consulted on the changes earlier this year and received wide support from learner drivers and approved driving instructors. The new legislation applies only in Scotland, England and Wales.
Jasmine Halstead, head of learning and development for the British School of Motoring, said: “Per mile travelled, motorways are our safest roads.
“If learners aren’t allowed to practise on motorways, some will avoid them and others will use them incorrectly when they have passed their test. It is great news for road safety that learners will be able to drive on motorways under supervision.”
Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency chief driving examiner Lesley Young said: “DVSA’s priority is to help you through a lifetime of safe driving.
“Our roads are among the safest in the world but we’re determined to do more to improve safety for all road users.
“We want to modernise driver training so that novice drivers gain the skills and experience they need to help them and everyone else to stay safe on our motorways.”