Junctions
Taking the third exit at a standard roundabout
A third exit means holding your position through more of the roundabout than a first exit - the signal timing and lane discipline matter more, not less, the longer you're on it.
This video has no narration. Follow the written steps below.
Practical test
Why it matters
This checks the full roundabout routine over a longer distance - road position and signal timing both have more chance to slip the longer you're on it.
What to look out for
Right in, left out
Arrive with a right signal for the approach, then switch to a left signal once you've passed the exit before yours.
Set up the exit early
Don't wait until the last moment - position the car for the exit while you're still travelling around the roundabout.
Key steps
- 1 Check mirrors, signal right in good time, and get into position on the approach before you reach the roundabout - there are no lane markings here, just the normal keep-left position.
- 2 Slow down progressively and give way to traffic already coming from the right before you commit to entering.
- 3 Hold a steady position around the roundabout, keeping your observation active as you pass each exit before yours.
- 4 As you pass the exit before yours, check mirrors, signal left, and leave smoothly onto the new road.
Common mistakes
Entering too fast
Reduce speed earlier so you can judge the traffic and steer around the roundabout without rushing.
Signalling left too late
Signal just after passing the exit before yours, so following traffic gets a clear, timely message about where you're going.
Drifting wide on the exit
Keep the steering measured and aim for the correct lane on the new road, rather than letting the car run out wide.
Example scenarios
Illustrative, AI-generated examples - not real photographs.
Avoid
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 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
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 th…
Taking the second exit at a standard roundabout
"Second exit" doesn't decide your signal on its own - where that exit actually sits does. Roughly straight ahead means …