Motorway driving can feel overwhelming for learners, but with the right preparation, the M5 and other Sydney motorways become manageable — and even enjoyable.
Before Entering the Motorway
- Check your mirrors and identify a safe gap in traffic
- Accelerate on the on-ramp to match motorway speed (100 km/h)
- Signal before merging — give yourself plenty of time
- Never stop on an on-ramp unless there's a traffic signal
Driving on the M5
Lane discipline:
- Keep left unless overtaking
- Never undertake (passing on the left)
- Maintain a safe following distance — at 100 km/h, use the 3-second rule
Speed management:
- The M5 speed limit is 100 km/h, or 110 km/h in some sections
- Variable speed limit signs may reduce the limit during incidents
- Always check your speedometer regularly
Exiting the Motorway
- Plan your exit in advance — check signs at least 1km ahead
- Move to the left lane early
- Signal when you reach the exit lane
- Begin decelerating on the off-ramp, not on the motorway
Common M5 Exits for St George Residents
- King Georges Road — for Hurstville and Penshurst
- Bexley Road — for Bexley and Rockdale
- Forest Road — for Hurstville CBD