Mirrors Signal Manoeuvre (MSM)
Mirrors Signal Manoeuvre (MSM) is the basic routine you should follow every time you change
speed or direction. It means checking your mirrors first, signalling if needed, and then carrying out your
manoeuvre in a safe, controlled way. Using the MSM routine properly every time you drive is essential for
passing the DVSA driving theory test and for
staying safe on real UK roads.
Use this Mirrors Signal Manoeuvre (MSM) guide to learn the key rules for learner drivers, see
how they apply in everyday driving, and help you prepare for the UK
car theory test,
motorcycle theory test,
HGV / LGV theory test,
PCV theory test, or
ADI Part 1 DVSA theory test.
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What is the Mirrors Signal Manoeuvre (MSM) routine?
The Mirrors Signal Manoeuvre (MSM) routine is a simple sequence you should use whenever you
intend to change speed or direction. It helps you stay aware of what is happening around your vehicle and to
warn other road users in good time.
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Mirrors - check your interior mirror first, then the appropriate
door mirror(s), so you know what is happening behind and to the sides before you act.
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Signal - if it will help or warn other road users, give the correct signal in
good time so they know what you intend to do.
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Manoeuvre - change your position, speed or direction in a safe, smooth
and controlled way, only when you are sure it is safe to do so.
MSM is closely linked to good observation. Mirrors do not show everything, so you may also need to
check your blind spots by looking over your shoulder before some manoeuvres, such as moving
off, changing lanes or overtaking cyclists.
Key Mirrors Signal Manoeuvre (MSM) rules
As a learner driver or rider, you need to show that you apply the MSM routine automatically and
safely whenever you drive. Here are the key Mirrors Signal Manoeuvre (MSM) rules you should
know:
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Use your mirrors frequently so that you always know what is behind and to each side of
you - not just when you are about to turn.
-
Always use mirrors in good time before you signal, change speed or change
direction.
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Check the interior mirror first to see what is directly behind you, then the
appropriate door mirror(s) for the side you are moving towards.
-
Do not signal, brake or change position without checking your mirrors first, as it could
be dangerous if someone is close behind or about to overtake.
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Remember that mirrors do not show your blind spots. Before some manoeuvres (such as
moving off, changing lanes or overtaking), also look over your shoulder to check the
blind area.
-
Make sure your mirrors are clean, properly adjusted and give a clear view before you
start a journey, and never hang objects where they can obstruct your rear view.
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Keep your signals clear and timely. Don't signal too early or too late, and cancel
your signal once the manoeuvre is complete.
These MSM and mirror safety rules are based on Rule 161 of the UK Highway Code, which
explains how and when to use mirrors safely when driving or riding. Want to see the Highway Code
mirror and MSM-related rules?
View the Highway Code mirrors and MSM rules.
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Typical situations where you'll use MSM
- Approaching and turning at junctions - check mirrors, signal in good time and then turn when it's safe.
- Changing lanes on dual carriageways and motorways - mirrors, signal, blind spot check and then move across smoothly.
- Overtaking cyclists, horses and parked vehicles - check mirrors, assess traffic behind, signal if needed and pass with plenty of room.
- Moving off from the side of the road - mirrors, blind spot check over your shoulder, signal if helpful and then move away safely.
- Slowing down for crossings, roundabouts or queuing traffic - check mirrors before braking so you know how close vehicles behind are.
Using the MSM routine in these everyday situations helps you avoid surprising other road users and reduces
the risk of collisions.
MSM and mirrors in real driving situations
Mirrors Signal Manoeuvre is not just a routine for your driving lessons - it is a key part of safe driving
every time you are on the road. You'll use it whenever you:
- Change your road position to pass parked cars, cyclists or other obstructions.
- Join or leave roundabouts, slip roads, dual carriageways or motorways.
- Adjust your speed because of traffic, weather or road layout changes.
- Turn into or out of side roads where pedestrians, cyclists and other vehicles may appear suddenly.
In your practical driving test, examiners will expect you to use your mirrors correctly,
apply the MSM routine consistently, check blind spots where necessary and make smooth, well-planned
manoeuvres without putting other road users at risk.
MSM and mirror questions in the DVSA theory test
Mirrors and the MSM routine appear in the multiple-choice part of the DVSA theory test in several ways. You
may be asked:
- When you should use your mirrors before signalling, changing lane or slowing down.
- Which mirrors you should check in different situations (for example, before overtaking or turning right).
- How mirrors and blind spots affect your ability to see cyclists, motorcyclists and other vulnerable road users.
- Why you must not rely only on mirrors and when to check over your shoulder.
Explore a sample of the latest DVSA theory test revision questions in Driving Theory 4 All's
theory test questions and answers
section.
Source: Department for Transport (GOV.UK) - The Highway Code. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.