How to drive multi-lane roundabouts in Canberra: 6 tips for learners

Multi-lane roundabouts are one of the most common worries for Canberra learners, and one of the most common places to lose marks in the ACT driving assessment. The good news: they follow a small set of rules. Once you know which lane to pick and when to signal, they become routine.

1. Choose your lane early

Read the road markings and signs well before the roundabout. As a general rule, unless markings show otherwise:

• Turning left: use the left lane.
• Turning right or doing a U-turn: use the right lane.
• Going straight ahead: use any lane the markings allow.

Lane arrows always win. Many Canberra roundabouts have arrows painted on the approach, so look for them early rather than at the give-way line.

2. Signal on the approach

• Turning left: signal left on the approach.
• Turning right: signal right on the approach.
• Going straight: no signal is needed on the approach.
• Every time you leave the roundabout, signal left before your exit if it’s practical.

3. Give way to vehicles already in the roundabout

You must give way to any vehicle already in the roundabout. Slow down early, check to your right, and pick a safe gap. Stopping isn’t required if the way is clear, but hesitating and then rushing is a common assessment fault.

4. Stay in your lane through the roundabout

Keep to the lane you entered in and exit into the matching lane. If you’re in the wrong lane, it’s safer to go around again or take the exit your lane allows than to cut across another car.

5. Watch for cyclists and large vehicles

Cyclists may ride around a multi-lane roundabout in the left lane even when turning right, so expect them across your exit. Buses and trucks need extra room and may use more than one lane.

6. Head checks before you exit

A quick head check over your left shoulder before exiting shows the assessor you’re aware of cyclists and cars beside you. Missing it is one of the faults we see most often.

Where to practise in Canberra

Gungahlin, Belconnen and Tuggeranong all have busy multi-lane roundabouts near their town centres. Start at quiet times, such as weekend mornings, then build up to peak traffic once your lane choice and signalling are automatic.

Get help with roundabouts

In our test preparation lessons we practise multi-lane roundabouts until they feel easy. See our lesson prices and packages, or book a lesson online. For the full rules, check the ACT road rules on Access Canberra.