How to Drive on Roundabouts in the UK: Lanes and Signals

On a UK roundabout you normally give way to traffic coming from your right, go clockwise, and choose your lane and signal based on your exit. Unless signs or markings say otherwise: for the first exit, signal left and use the left lane; for exits to the right or full circle, signal right and use the right lane, then signal left after passing the exit before yours; for exits in between, choose the appropriate lane and signal left after passing the previous exit. These rules come from Highway Code rules 184 to 186.

Roundabouts worry many learners, but with a clear routine they become one of the most predictable parts of driving.

Who has priority at a roundabout?

Highway Code rule 185 says that when you reach a roundabout you should give way to traffic approaching from your right, unless signs, road markings or traffic lights indicate otherwise. Check whether markings allow you to enter without giving way, and keep looking right as you join.

Since 2022, rule H3 also asks drivers to give priority to cyclists on the roundabout. Rule 186 says to give them plenty of room and not to overtake them within their lane.

The approach: plan early

Rule 184 is about planning. On the approach:

1. Read the signs showing the layout and which lane leads to your exit.
2. Check your mirrors and choose the correct lane early.
3. Signal if needed (see below).
4. Adjust your speed so you can stop at the give-way line or keep moving if it's clear.
5. Look right to judge the traffic, and keep an eye on the car in front.

Which lane and which signal

Unless signs or road markings tell you otherwise, rule 186 gives this pattern:

Lane markings always take priority. Large roundabouts often have lane arrows or spiral markings that lead you to the right exit automatically.

Joining the roundabout

• Look right for a safe gap. Don't just watch the car in front; it might stop.
• Watch for signals but don't trust them blindly. A car signalling left might not leave.
• Look out for cyclists, motorcyclists and long vehicles, which may take a different line (rule 187).
• Go decisively when there's a safe gap. Hesitating when it's clear can confuse others.

On the roundabout

• Keep to your lane and follow the markings.
• Check your mirrors, especially your left door mirror, before changing lanes or leaving.
• Be aware of vehicles straddling lanes or crossing in front of you.

Leaving the roundabout

1. Signal left after passing the exit before the one you want.
2. Check your left mirror and, if needed, blind spot for cyclists and motorcyclists.
3. Leave in the correct lane and watch for pedestrians crossing the exit road.

Mini-roundabouts

Rule 188 says to approach mini-roundabouts in the same way as normal ones. All vehicles should go around the central markings unless they're too big to do so. Avoid U-turns at mini-roundabouts. With less space, others have less time to react to your signals, so be extra clear.

At double mini-roundabouts (rule 189), treat each one separately and give way to traffic from the right at each.

Common roundabout mistakes

• Using the wrong lane, then cutting across lanes.
• Signalling incorrectly, or forgetting to signal left when leaving.
• Stopping when the way is clear, or going when it isn't.
• Not checking for cyclists when leaving.

These link to several of DVSA's top fail reasons, including "mirrors when changing direction", "positioning when turning right" and "road markings". See the top 10 reasons for failing the driving test.

How to practise roundabouts

1. Start with small, quiet single-lane roundabouts.
2. Practise each exit in turn: left, ahead, right, full circle.
3. Move on to two-lane and spiral roundabouts at quiet times.
4. Practise at busier times with your instructor.
5. Use commentary: say your lane, signal and exit out loud.

Summary

Give way to traffic from the right, choose your lane early from the signs, signal according to your exit, and signal left after passing the exit before yours. Follow lane markings, look out for cyclists, and be decisive when it's clear. Pair this with strong mirror and blind spot habits and you'll handle any roundabout. Ready for faster roads? Read our motorway driving tips.

Practise with Co-Drive

Co-Drive is an iOS app with step-by-step lessons on roundabouts and junctions, original theory practice questions written from The Highway Code (not official DVSA questions) and spaced review. It's designed to support your lessons with an instructor. Find out more.