Junctions
Roundabouts
Topic breakdown
Topics
Topic 1
Multi-lane roundabouts
Lane choice, signalling, and exit timing on larger roundabouts where road markings and lane discipline matter throughout the turn.
Open topic
Topic 2
Mini roundabouts
Low-speed roundabouts that still require clear observations, lane discipline, and precise steering without cutting across the centre marking.
Open topic
Topic 3
Standard roundabouts
Typical roundabouts where lane choice, approach speed, signalling, and exit timing need to stay tidy without the extra complexity of spiral lanes.
Open topic
Practical test
Why it matters
Roundabouts test planning, observation, lane discipline, signal timing and gap judgement all at once. Poor lane discipline or a mistimed signal can be recorded as a fault, and more seriously if it makes another road user change course.
What to look out for
Signalling, in short
First exit (left): signal left on approach. Going ahead: no approach signal, then signal left after the exit before yours. Right or full circle: signal right on approach, then left after the exit before yours.
Watch for those who take a different line
Cyclists, horse riders and motorcyclists may keep to the left lane even to go right round; long vehicles may need more than one lane. Give them room and don't assume their exit from their position.
Key steps
- 1 Decide which exit you need as early as you can - from the road signs and lane markings on approach - so your lane choice is made before you arrive, not on the roundabout.
- 2 Use Mirror-Signal-Manoeuvre on approach: mirrors, then signal and position for your exit, then adjust your speed so you can give way without stopping if the way is clear.
- 3 Give way to traffic already on the roundabout - normally coming from your right - and enter only when there's a genuinely safe gap.
- 4 Hold your lane and your line around the roundabout, watching for anything crossing in front of you and for road users who take a different course.
- 5 Signal left as you pass the exit before the one you want, check your left mirror, and leave smoothly in the correct lane.
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Common mistakes
Choosing your lane too late
Read the signs and lane arrows on approach so you're already in the right lane - changing lanes on the roundabout is where most problems start.
Only looking right
Traffic comes from the right, but also check ahead, the lane markings, pedestrians on the exits, and anything already committed across your path.
Forgetting the exit signal
Signal left as you pass the exit before yours - too early looks like you're leaving sooner, too late leaves others guessing.
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Highway Code
This lesson is a revision aid, not a replacement for The Highway Code.
Rule 184
On approach, use Mirror-Signal-Manoeuvre at all stages, decide as early as possible which exit you need, give an appropriate signal (see Rule 186), and time your signals so as not to confuse other road users.
Read on GOV.UKRule 186
Unless signs or markings indicate otherwise, choose your lane and signal by your exit: first exit - signal left and approach in the left lane; going ahead - no signal on approach, then signal left after the exit before yours; right or full circle - signal right and approach in the right lane, then signal left after the exit before yours.
Read on GOV.UKRule 187
Watch out for pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, horse riders and long vehicles on the roundabout - some may take a different course or stay in the left lane even when going right round.
Read on GOV.UK