Roundabouts are one of the biggest worries for learner drivers. With traffic moving from all directions, signs and lanes to think about, and the pressure of keeping things flowing, it’s no surprise many learners find them stressful.
The good news is that roundabouts are actually designed to keep traffic safe and smooth. Once you understand the rules and practise the right techniques, approaching a roundabout becomes second nature. In this guide, we’ll explain exactly how to drive on a roundabout step by step, how to signal correctly, and the common mistakes to avoid.
What is a Roundabout?
A roundabout is a circular junction where traffic flows in one direction around a central island. Instead of traffic lights or stop signs, vehicles give way to traffic already on the roundabout, usually approaching from the right.
Roundabouts are common across the UK because they:
- Reduce the risk of serious collisions.
- Keep traffic moving without long delays.
- Make it easier to handle busy junctions with multiple exits.
As a learner driver, your goal is to understand how to approach, position your car, signal clearly, and exit safely.
Step-by-Step: How to Drive on a Roundabout
1. Approach & Observation
- Check your mirrors early and reduce speed gradually.
- Select the right gear (usually 2nd, sometimes 1st if busy).
- Look ahead for road signs and markings that show which lane you need.
- Start observing the traffic on the roundabout so you can judge gaps early.
2. Choosing the Correct Lane
The general rule for lane choice is:
- Left lane: turning left or going straight ahead.
- Right lane: turning right or going all the way around.
- Always follow road markings – some roundabouts have special lane arrows.
Tip: On a two-lane approach, if you’re going straight ahead but the roundabout has arrows, follow them instead of assuming.
3. Signalling at Roundabouts
Signalling is one of the areas learners often find tricky. Here’s the golden rule:
- Left turn: signal left as you approach.
- Straight ahead: no signal on approach, signal left just after you pass the exit before yours.
- Right turn/full circle: signal right on approach, then switch to left after you pass the exit before yours.
This helps other drivers know exactly where you’re heading.
4. Joining the Roundabout
- Give way to vehicles approaching from your right.
- Only enter when there’s a safe gap – don’t rush.
- If in doubt, wait. It’s better to pause briefly than to pull out unsafely.
- Keep your steering smooth and speed controlled as you enter.
5. Exiting the Roundabout
- As you pass the exit before yours, check mirrors and signal left.
- Maintain lane discipline – don’t cut across lanes.
- Exit steadily and be prepared for pedestrians crossing at the exit.
Common Roundabout Mistakes Learners Make
It’s easy to slip up under pressure, but knowing the common errors can help you avoid them:
- Entering too fast – always slow down early so you’re ready to stop if needed.
- Not checking mirrors before exiting – this is a common driving test fault.
- Being in the wrong lane – get into position early and follow arrows.
- Forgetting to signal – clear signals keep everyone safe.
- Panicking – if unsure, stay calm, keep control, and go round again if needed.
Remember, examiners don’t expect perfection, but they do want to see that you’re safe and aware.
Mini Roundabouts
Mini roundabouts follow the same rules as normal ones, but they are much smaller. You’ll see them marked with a painted white circle on the road instead of a raised island.
- You must drive around the circle, not over it, unless your vehicle is too large.
- Take extra care with signalling – because everything happens quickly.
- Watch out for vehicles turning in tight spaces or approaching from unusual angles.
Tips for Building Confidence
Roundabouts will feel easier the more you practise. Try these strategies:
- Start small: practise on quieter, single-lane roundabouts before tackling larger multi-lane ones.
- Pick quiet times: go out early mornings or late evenings to avoid heavy traffic.
- Break it down: focus on one part at a time – approach, position, signalling, then exit.
- Learn with support: ask your instructor to repeat roundabouts until you feel comfortable.
- Stay patient: every driver once felt the same – confidence comes with time.
Summary
Roundabouts may seem challenging at first, but with practice and the right technique, they become just another part of the road. Slow down early, choose the correct lane, signal clearly, and keep checking your mirrors as you enter and exit.
If you’re preparing for your driving test, remember that examiners look for safe decision-making, not rushing. Take your time, and don’t be afraid to wait for a clear gap.
Roundabouts don’t need to be stressful – they’re simply about observation, patience, and smooth control.
👉 Want more advice? Check out our other Driving Tips, such as Junctions & Right of Way or Driving Test Tips. Or book a lesson with Humphreys Driving Lessons and get personalised support to master roundabouts with confidence.