Roundabouts are one of the most common junction types in the UK. While they can seem daunting at first, mastering how to use them correctly is essential – for safety, for smooth traffic flow, and for passing your driving test.
Below you’ll find everything your learners need to know: rules, lane choices, signalling, mini vs standard roundabouts, pitfalls, checklists, and tips.
📜 Rules & Key Principles
- Give way to traffic from your right
When approaching a roundabout, you must yield to vehicles already on the roundabout coming from your right, unless road signs or markings direct otherwise. - Use MSM / MSPSL in your approach
Use Mirrors → Signal → Manoeuvre (and where needed include Position, Speed, Look) early. Plan your exit. - Choose the correct lane
- If taking the first exit (left), usually approach in the left-hand lane, signal left, and keep left around the roundabout.
- If turning right or going nearly full circle, approach in the right-hand or appropriate lane, signal right first, then signal left after passing the exit before yours.
- For intermediate or straight-on exits, you may not need to signal on approach; signal left after passing the exit before yours.
- Be aware of cyclists, horses, and large vehicles
Cyclists or horse riders in the left lane may continue around the roundabout. Don’t cut across them when entering.
Larger vehicles may need to straddle lanes; give them space. - Mini-roundabouts follow the same rules
Approach them similarly, but beware there’s less room to manoeuvre. All vehicles must pass around the central marking (unless too large).
🛠 Instructor Tips & Insights
- I often get learners to visualise the roundabout as a clock face (e.g. left = 9 o’clock, right = 3 o’clock) to decide lane and signal earlier.
- Practice anticipating the exit before you reach the roundabout – this gives you more time to choose a lane and signal correctly.
- In lessons, I sometimes ask learners to pretend a cyclist or horse rider is already in the left lane; this helps them stay vigilant and avoid dangerous lane changes.
⚠ Common Mistakes to Watch Out For
| Mistake | Why It’s Risky | How to Avoid It |
|---|---|---|
| Entering in wrong lane | You may need to change lanes on the roundabout, risking conflicts | Always check the left lane and allow room for slower users |
| Signalling too early or too late | Could mislead others or be missed entirely | Signal close to manoeuvre timing, not at random intervals |
| Cutting across cyclists on the left | Dangerous collision risk | Always check left lane and allow room for slower users |
| Confuses, blocks traffic | Choose your lane early based on the exit | Only stop if you must; keep moving if safe |
| Overlooking road markings or signs | They may override default rules | Always obey signs/lanes even if your instinct differs |
📋 Roundabout Checklist (What to Remember)
- Identify your exit before the roundabout
- Choose the correct lane early
- Use mirrors and signals in good time
- Give way to vehicles already on the roundabout (from your right)
- Watch for cyclists, horses, and large vehicles
- Signal left when passing the exit before yours
- Don’t overtake on a roundabout
- Re-check mirrors before exiting
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Should I signal when going straight on a roundabout?
A: Normally, you do not signal on approach. After you pass the exit before yours, you then signal left.
Q: What if signs or markings contradict the “to the right” rule?
A: Always obey signs and road markings. They override the normal roundabout rules.
Q: Can I overtake on a roundabout?
A: No. Do not overtake within the roundabout — stay in your lane consistently until exit.
Q: Are there special roundabout types I should be aware of?
A: Yes — turbo roundabouts, magic roundabouts, and “hamburger” or cut-through roundabouts. These may have special lane constraints or signals.
📚 Attribution & Official Guidance
Some of this content is based on The Highway Code (Rules 184–190) and other DVSA guidelines on roundabouts.
