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Written question asked by Baroness Pidgeon (Liberal Democrat) on Friday, 16 January 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Friday, 30 January 2026. It was answered by Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill (Labour) on Monday, 26 January 2026 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Driving Tests: Motorways

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government, with regard to the Road Safety Strategy, published on 7 January, whether they plan to introduce additional night and motorway driving lessons or requirements as part of (1) the proposed minimum learning period for learner drivers, or (2) the probation period.

Answer

The new Road Safety Strategy sets out our vision for a safer future on our roads for all. This includes consulting on a Minimum Learning Period before learner drivers can take their test. This would allow learners more time to gain essential experience, for example in different weather conditions, before driving independently and reduce the risk to themselves and other drivers.

Learner drivers are already able to gain experience in both night‑time and motorway driving under the current system. Since June 2018, learners have been permitted to take motorway driving lessons with an approved driving instructor in a dual‑controlled car, which provides structured exposure to higher‑speed environments before they take their test.

While night driving is not mandatory, it is already covered within the DVSA‑recommended syllabus, and many instructors introduce it as part of their training programmes where appropriate.

The Government will consider all responses to the Minimum Learning Period consultation before deciding on next steps and a response to the consultation will be published in due course.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL13667
Session
2024-26
Related items
Deposited Paper DEP2026-0008
Wednesday, 7 January 2026
Deposited papers
House of Commons
Subjects
Driving tests Motorways
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk