Almost two-thirds of drivers surveyed (61%) believe motorway driving should be included in the driving test, according to a recent survey by Citroën UK and IAM RoadSmart. From today, Monday 4 June 2018, student drivers are able to have driving lessons on motorways in England, Scotland and Wales. This latest update follows changes made to the driving test in December 2017, which were introduced to make the test more relevant to modern day driving. 

From today, Monday 4 June 2018, learner drivers are able to take lessons on Britain’s motorways for the very first time. The cars must be fitted with dual controls and the student driver has to be accompanied by an approved driving instructor.

However, research carried out by Citroën UK and IAM RoadSmart has revealed that 61% of the 1,032 IAM RoadSmart members surveyed believe students should be tested on motorways before being handed their licence*.

This latest change to the motorway driving law follows updates made to the driving test in December 2017, which made it more relevant in the real world, with independent driving elements and new manoeuvres. Together the new rules are intended to encourage safer driving for new motorists.

Currently, learner drivers can pass the driving test without ever having driven on a motorway. The new rules, which are effective from today, mean students now have the chance to develop vital driving skills such as how to join flowing traffic from a slip road, leave the motorway, overtake and use the lanes correctly.

Nevertheless, these new motorway driving lessons are voluntary and it will be up to driving instructors to decide when and if their student drivers experience driving on a motorway.

Citroën is fully committed to road safety and its cars are fitted with a wide range of new technologies to help protect all drivers. The latest Citroën C3 can keep drivers safe with advanced features such as Lane Departure Warning and Blind Spot Monitoring systems.

The Citroën brand also helps newly qualified drivers get on the road in a safe new model with its unique Citroën SimplyDrive** scheme. This cost effective solution allows first-time qualified drivers to have a brand new Citroën that is fitted with a ‘black-box’ device that monitors speed, braking and acceleration to improve driving skills and safety – and in turn lowers insurance premiums. One single monthly payment includes a brand new car, insurance, road tax, servicing and roadside assistance.

Souad Wrixen, Citroën UK’s Marketing Director, commented; “Citroën is a brand that understands the importance of educating new drivers, and ensuring they develop the essential skills needed to get behind the wheel of a car. The Citroën C3 supermini was recently voted ‘Driving Instructor Car of the Year’ in the FirstCar Awards 2018, which reinforces our dedication to delivering an exceptional experience for all our customers – whether you’re an approved driving instructor or you’ve only just passed your test.”