← Using the road
Rule 185: When reaching the roundabout
Advice, not law
Roundabouts (rules 184 to 190)
When reaching the roundabout you should
- give priority to traffic approaching from your right, unless directed otherwise by signs, road markings or traffic lights
- check whether road markings allow you to enter the roundabout without giving way. If so, proceed, but still look to the right before joining
- watch out for all other road users already on the roundabout; be aware they may not be signalling correctly or at all
- look forward before moving off to make sure traffic in front has moved off.
Advice, not law. This rule is not written in capitals, so breaking it is not an offence in itself — but it can still be used in evidence in court to establish liability. The rules that say MUST or MUST NOT are the ones backed by law.
5 theory test questions on this rule
From the DVSA revision question bank. These are not the questions asked in the real theory test. Each one shows the answer, the explanation, and our own note on why every other option is not it.
Car
- Which sign shows that you're entering a one-way system? Road and traffic signs
- You arrive at an incident. There's no danger from fire or further collisions and the emergency services have been called. What's your first priority when attending to an unconscious motorcyclist? Incidents, accidents and emergencies
Lorry & Bus (LGV/PCV)
- You're driving a long vehicle and want to turn right at a roundabout ahead. How should you signal if you need to occupy the left-hand lane? The road
- You're entering a roundabout. What should you do if a cyclist in front of you is signalling to turn right? Other road users
- You want to turn right at a roundabout marked with 2 right-turn lanes. What should you do if there's sufficient room for your vehicle in either lane? Restricted view