How to teach use of speed
Keeping to the limit and driving at a speed that suits the road and conditions.
What to teach
- Teach how to spot the limit from street lights, signs and the type of road.
- Show that the limit is a maximum, not a target.
- Practise making progress where it is safe, so the learner is not too slow.
- Link speed to stopping distance and what can be seen ahead.
Faults to watch for
- Driving too slowly for the road, holding up traffic.
- Missing a change of limit.
- Approaching hazards too fast.
Practice between lessons
On supervised drives, ask the learner to say the speed limit every time it changes.
Common questions
Can a learner fail for driving too slowly?
Yes. Not making progress when it is safe to do so can be marked as a fault.
What is the limit on a road with street lights?
Usually 30 mph in England and Wales unless signs show otherwise. Some areas use 20 mph.
