LEARNER drivers will be allowed to take motorway driving lessons with an approved driving instructor in a car with dual controls from 2018.

The Government says allowing learner drivers to have lessons on motorways will help to make sure more drivers know how to use motorways safely.

Curently you can only have driving lessons on motorways after you’ve passed your driving test. 

But from next year the law is set to change. 

Here's everything you need to know...

How will the change work? 

The change will apply to England, Scotland and Wales.

Learner drivers will need to be accompanied by an approved driving instructor driving a car fitted with dual controls.

Any motorways lessons will be voluntary.

It will be up to the driving instructor to decide when the learner driver is competent enough to have a motorway lesson.

Trainee driving instructors won’t be allowed to take learner drivers on the motorway.

Motorway driving will not be included in the driving test changes coming into force on 4 December 2017.

The change will only apply to learner drivers of cars - learner motorcyclists won’t be allowed to have motorway lessons.

When the change will happen?

The exact date in 2018 will be confirmed nearer the time.

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) say the change will be well-publicised so driving instructors and learner drivers are prepared for the change, and other road users know what to expect. The Highway Code rules on motorways will also be updated.

Until the law is changed, it’s still illegal for a learner driver to drive on a motorway.

It will be up to the instructor whether or not they keep their driving school roof-top box on - but the car will still have to display L plates on the front and rear

Why is this happening?

A spokesman added: "The changes are being made to allow learner drivers to get broader driving experience before taking their driving test, get training on how to join and leave the motorway, overtake and use lanes correctly, practise driving at higher speeds and put their theoretical knowledge into practice."