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What are roundabouts?
A roundabout is a circular junction where traffic flows in one direction around a central island.
Drivers usually approach from several different roads and choose an appropriate lane depending on where they want to go.
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Traffic on the roundabout normally has priority over traffic entering from side roads.
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Lane markings and signs on approach show which lane you should use for different exits.
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There are many types of roundabout – from large multi-lane layouts to mini-roundabouts marked only by painted circles.
In your theory test, you'll be expected to understand how to choose the correct lane, when to give way, and how to signal
clearly when using both normal and mini-roundabouts.
Key roundabout rules
As a learner driver or rider, you need to show that you can approach, use and exit roundabouts smoothly and safely.
Here are the key roundabout rules you should know:
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On approach, reduce your speed, use the Mirrors –Signal - Manoeuvre routine
and choose the correct lane in good time.
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Give priority to traffic already on the roundabout coming from your right, unless signs, road markings
or traffic lights tell you otherwise.
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Use the left-hand lane for turning left or going straight ahead at simple roundabouts, and the
right-hand or appropriate lane for turning right or going full circle, unless lane signs/markings show different rules.
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Signal clearly: normally signal left when taking the first exit, signal right when taking exits past 12 o'clock,
and signal left just after you pass the exit before yours when leaving the roundabout.
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Watch carefully for cyclists, motorcyclists, horse riders and pedestrians at and around the roundabout,
especially when you join or leave.
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At mini-roundabouts, treat the painted circle as a proper roundabout. Do not drive over it unless absolutely necessary
and never use it as a U-turn spot to "spin" at speed.
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Never block the roundabout. If your exit is not clear, wait on the approach until there is space to leave safely.
These roundabout rules are based on Rules 184–190 of the UK Highway Code, which cover approaching, signalling,
lane choice and priorities at roundabouts, including mini-roundabouts. Want to see the Highway Code roundabout rules?
View the Highway Code roundabout rules.
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Typical roundabout layouts
Here are some common roundabout layouts you'll see in DVSA theory test questions and when learning to drive:
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Simple single-lane roundabouts – one lane on approach and around the roundabout with clear give way lines.
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Multi-lane roundabouts – two or more lanes on approach and on the roundabout, with lane arrows and signs
showing which exits each lane serves.
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Mini-roundabouts – small roundabouts usually marked by a painted circle in the centre, often found in residential
or low-speed areas.
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Complex or spiral roundabouts – larger layouts with lane arrows that guide you from outer to inner lanes
(or vice versa) as you follow your chosen exit.
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Signal-controlled roundabouts – roundabouts with traffic lights on some or all approaches to help control heavy traffic.
Being able to recognise these layouts and read the signs and lane markings will help you answer exam questions and choose the correct lane in real life.
Roundabouts in real driving situations
You'll meet roundabouts on many everyday routes. You'll use your roundabout knowledge every time you:
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Follow signs on approach to choose the correct lane for your exit.
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Decide whether to give way to traffic approaching from your right on the roundabout.
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Identify safe gaps in the traffic flow so you can join the roundabout smoothly without harsh braking.
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Deal with vulnerable road users such as cyclists and horse riders, who may approach or use roundabouts differently.
In your practical driving test, examiners will expect you to show good planning, lane discipline, signalling and smooth control when using all types of roundabout.
Roundabout questions in the DVSA theory test
Roundabouts appear in many DVSA theory test questions. You may be asked:
- Which lane to use for different exits at a roundabout.
- How and when to signal on approach to and when leaving a roundabout.
- What you should do when dealing with cyclists, motorcyclists and horse riders at roundabouts.
- How mini-roundabouts should be treated and when you must give way.
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.