Signalling at Turns and Roundabouts: The UK Rules That Catch Learners Out

Signalling seems straightforward until you reach a roundabout. The UK Highway Code has specific signalling requirements for roundabouts that differ from what many drivers expect — and getting them wrong, or forgetting to signal at all, is a reliable way to collect faults on your test.

The Basic Signalling Rule

Signals exist to communicate your intentions to other road users. The principle is: signal clearly, early, and accurately — before the manoeuvre, not during or after it. A signal given as you begin turning tells nobody anything useful. A signal given in advance allows drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians to plan around you.

Signalling at Roundabouts

The Highway Code (Rules 185–190) gives specific roundabout signalling guidance:

• Turning left (1st exit): Signal left as you approach the roundabout.
• Going straight on (2nd exit): No signal as you approach. Signal left when you pass the exit before yours.
• Turning right (3rd exit or beyond): Signal right as you approach. Signal left when you pass the exit before yours.
• Always cancel your signal once you have exited.

The Most Missed Signal: Exiting

The signal learners forget most often is the left signal when exiting a roundabout. You must indicate left as you pass the exit before the one you intend to take. This tells other waiting drivers that you are about to exit — letting them safely enter the roundabout behind you. Missing this signal is a driving fault, even if no one is visibly waiting.

Instructor's Tip

UK examiners expect signalling to be 'clear, early, and accurate'. Clear means the indicator light is obviously on. Early means it's on before the manoeuvre begins. Accurate means it matches your actual intention. Practice roundabout signalling on every lesson until the exit indicator feels as natural as the approach signal.