Sharing the road with learner drivers, and how learners can handle impatient drivers

1 May 2023 | road safety

Driver leaner checking the middle mirror

Every driver was a learner once, yet learners and their instructors regularly face aggressive overtakes, tailgating and horns. This guide is for both sides: how other drivers can help learners stay safe, and how learners can stay calm when someone behind is impatient.

The L plates are not a sign that someone is in your way. They are a sign that someone is learning to drive safely, and you can help.Oxon Driving Tuitions

How to Drive Around Learners

Learner drivers must display L plates on the front and rear of the car. They may take a little longer at junctions, stall occasionally or drive at a steady speed while they build confidence. A little patience keeps everyone safe.

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Leave a gap

Keep a safe distance behind. A learner may brake earlier or more firmly than you expect.

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Be patient at junctions

Learners are taught to wait for a safe gap. Pressure from behind only makes a rushed decision more likely.

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Overtake only when safe

Never overtake approaching a junction, where the road narrows, or near pedestrian crossings. A learner is not a reason to take a risk.

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Avoid the horn

Sounding the horn at a learner rarely helps and can cause a stall or a mistake at the worst moment.

When Other Drivers Are Impatient

Irresponsible driving around learners can cause nerves, mistakes and sometimes a loss of confidence. These are the habits that help you stay in control.

ADrive for the road, not the driver behindKeep to a speed that suits the road and the limit. Do not let pressure from behind push you faster or into a gap you are not happy with.
BGive yourself more space aheadIf someone is close behind, leave a bigger gap in front and brake early and gently, so you never need to stop suddenly.
CExpect the unexpected overtakeSome drivers overtake learners in poor places. Keep checking your mirrors and be ready to ease off to let them back in safely.
DDo not engageIgnore gestures and horns. Reacting takes your attention away from the road, which is where it needs to be.

The role of your instructor

Your instructor is there to keep you safe and support you when other drivers make things harder.

Dual controls mean they can step in if a situation becomes dangerous
They will talk you through what is happening, so you can focus on driving
They help you rebuild confidence after a stressful moment
They teach you to anticipate the mistakes of other drivers

If You Feel Unsafe

🚨If someone is driving dangerously or you feel threatened, call 999 when it is safe to do so

📞To report poor driving after the event, contact the police on 101

📷Note the time, place and registration if you can do so safely, and keep any dashcam footage

💖If an incident has knocked your confidence, talk to your instructor. A calm lesson on familiar roads helps

Learner Drivers: Your Questions Answered

Do learner drivers have to display L plates?

Yes. Learners must display L plates on the front and rear of the car they are driving (L or D plates in Wales). Plates should be removed when the car is not being driven by a learner.

What should I do if another driver is impatient on my lesson?

Keep driving safely at your own pace, leave a bigger gap in front and let your instructor deal with anything else. You never have to speed up or rush a junction because of the driver behind.

Is it illegal to tailgate or harass a learner driver?

Driving too close or aggressively can be treated as careless or dangerous driving, whoever is in front. If you feel threatened, call 999 when it is safe to do so.

Should I use P plates after I pass?

P plates are optional in Great Britain. Many new drivers find they encourage other drivers to give them more space while they build confidence.