Junctions
Taking the first exit at a standard roundabout
The one exit where the signal isn't a judgement call - a first exit always means a left signal on approach, held all the way round to where you leave.
This video has no narration. Follow the written steps below.
Practical test
Why it matters
Examiners are watching for an early, clear left signal and steady road position - the fault here is usually a late or missing signal, not a wrong one.
What to look out for
One signal, held throughout
Unlike later exits, a first exit doesn't need a second signal partway round - the left signal you give on approach is still telling the truth right up to where you leave.
No lane to choose
This roundabout has no lane markings on entry or on the roundabout itself - just keep well to the left throughout, the same road position you'd hold on any single-width road.
Key steps
- 1 Check mirrors and signal left in good time on the approach, well before you reach the roundabout.
- 2 Keep to the left of the road and slow down progressively as you approach the give-way line - there's no lane to choose on a roundabout like this, just normal keep-left positioning.
- 3 Give priority to traffic already on the roundabout from your right, and only enter once there's a safe gap.
- 4 Keep the left signal on and hold a steady position close to the left all the way round to the exit - there's no second signal to give, since you're already signalling the way you're leaving.
- 5 Check mirrors as you leave, and let the car flow smoothly onto the new road without cutting the corner.
Common mistakes
Signalling late or not at all
A first exit is the one case where the signal isn't optional or timed to something else - signal left as you approach, not once you're already committed to the roundabout.
Drifting away from the left
Hold a position close to the left throughout rather than drifting wide toward the middle of the road - the exit comes up quickly on a first exit, and there's little room to correct late.
Entering without a genuine gap
Slow down early enough to actually judge traffic from the right, rather than arriving at the line still deciding.
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 Rule 184 on GOV.UKRule 185
Give priority to traffic approaching from your right, unless directed otherwise by signs, road markings or traffic lights.
Read Rule 185 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 Rule 186 on GOV.UKMore in Standard roundabouts
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