Auto advice: What rules apply to driving on a motorway and what should I be aware of when using one?

Only fully licensed drivers can drive on a motorway in this country. You must not enter a motorway if: you are a learner driver or do not hold a full licence for the category of vehicle you are driving; your vehicle cannot travel or maintain a speed of at least 50kmh; your vehicle has an engine capacity of 50cc or less; your vehicle does not use inflated tyres; you are walking, cycling or moving animals; or you drive a motorised wheelchair.

Who can drive on a motorway?

What are the speed limits?

The maximum speed limit on a motorway is 120kmh unless there are signs stating another speed limit, for example warning signals to highlight road works, or you are driving a vehicle that is subject to a lower limit such as a bus or truck or you are towing a trailer, caravan or horse/cattle box.

What lane should I use?

You should generally use the left lane, which is the lane nearest the hard shoulder for driving in normal conditions, unless you need to overtake a slower vehicle or vehicles, or the lane is blocked. If you are overtaking, once you have finished and it is safe to do so you should move from the right lane back into the left. Where there are three lanes, there is an extra overtaking lane, but you should still keep left as much as possible so don’t drive in the right lane if the middle lane is empty or in the middle lane if the left lane is empty.

What to keep in mind when driving on a motorway?

You must drive at a safe and legal speed and keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front. Leave a bigger gap when you are driving on wet or icy roads or in fog and keep an eye on variable messaging warning signs that may advise motorists of potential hazards on the motorway. Do not attempt to turn or reverse — it is not only an offence to drive against the flow of traffic on a motorway but it is also very dangerous.

Are motorways the safest roads?

Motorways are safe but they are not without risk: between 2020 and 2022 there were 31 deaths on motorways.

​Top Tip: If you break down on the motorway, do not spend time trying to repair the problem yourself even if the issue is minor. Get out of the car and call the Motorway Emergency Service helpline on 0818-715-100.

Got a question? Contact [email protected]

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