A55 Restrictions Llanddulas to Conwy
Learn why learner drivers cannot use this section of the A55, even when accompanied by an approved driving instructor in a dual-control car.
Between Junction 23 and Junction 17
The learner-driver restriction applies to the A55 special-road section running between Llanddulas and Conwy Morfa.
Junction 23 serves Llanddulas, while Junction 17 is at Conwy Morfa. Learner drivers must not enter or remain on the restricted section between these points.
Instructors should plan the route in advance and leave the A55 before reaching the restricted stretch. Do not rely on making a last-minute diversion once the learner is already approaching it.
Junction 23 to Junction 17
- Junction 23 is the Llanddulas end
- Junction 17 is the Conwy Morfa end
- The restriction operates in both directions
- Learners must leave before entering the section
- Do not join midway through the restricted route
- Plan an alternative route before setting off
Between Junction 23 and Junction 17
The learner-driver restriction applies to the A55 special-road section running between Llanddulas and Conwy Morfa.
Junction 23 serves Llanddulas, while Junction 17 is at Conwy Morfa. Learner drivers must not enter or remain on the restricted section between these points.
Instructors should plan the route in advance and leave the A55 before reaching the restricted stretch. Do not rely on making a last-minute diversion once the learner is already approaching it.
Use Suitable Local Roads Instead
The best alternative depends on the lesson starting point, destination, traffic conditions and the learner’s level of experience.
Leave at Llanddulas
When travelling west, leave the A55 before the restricted section and continue using an appropriate local route through the coastal towns.
Join After Conwy Morfa
Learners travelling farther west can rejoin the A55 beyond the restricted section when the chosen route and lesson plan make this suitable.
Check the Route First
Sat-nav systems do not automatically account for provisional-licence restrictions. The supervising driver remains responsible for choosing a lawful route.
Stay Calm and Leave at the Next Safe Opportunity
If a learner enters the restricted section by mistake, the priority is to keep the vehicle under control and avoid any sudden or unsafe manoeuvre.
The instructor should give clear directions, provide the level of support needed and arrange to leave the road at the next safe and lawful opportunity.
Do not stop in a live lane, reverse, use an emergency area without a genuine emergency or attempt an unsafe last-minute exit.
Learners Can Still Practise Similar Skills Elsewhere
The restriction does not prevent instructors from teaching high-speed road skills on other suitable roads where learner drivers are legally permitted.
Joining and Leaving
Learners can practise assessing gaps, using acceleration lanes and joining faster traffic on suitable unrestricted dual carriageways.
Lane Discipline
Lessons can cover effective observation, safe following distances, overtaking and returning to the left lane when appropriate.
Planning Ahead
Route signs, junction numbers and early lane selection can all be practised without using the prohibited A55 section.
Plan the Route Before the Lesson Begins
Instructors working around Colwyn Bay, Conwy and Llandudno should make the restriction part of their normal route planning.
Sat-nav instructions should be checked rather than followed blindly. A navigation system may choose the fastest route without recognising that the driver holds a provisional licence.
Discuss the restriction with the learner so they understand why the route changes and know that the same rule applies when practising privately.
Learners Must Avoid the Restricted A55 Section
The simplest way to stay legal is to plan the route before setting off and leave the A55 before entering the section between Llanddulas and Conwy Morfa.
Check the Licence
The restriction applies while the driver holds a provisional licence, including during professional driving lessons.
Check the Route
Do not assume that a sat-nav route is suitable for a learner driver. Review the journey and choose the correct exit in advance.
Use an Alternative
Suitable local roads and unrestricted dual carriageways can be used for route practice and high-speed driving experience.
Learn Local Routes With an Experienced Instructor
Good route knowledge helps learners practise safely and avoid roads where provisional licence restrictions apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about the learner-driver restriction between Llanddulas and Conwy Morfa.
Can learner drivers use the A55 between Llanddulas and Conwy?
Learner drivers must not use the restricted special-road section between Llanddulas and Conwy Morfa while driving on a provisional licence.
Can a learner use this section with an approved driving instructor?
No. Being accompanied by an approved driving instructor in a dual-control car does not remove the restriction on this particular section of the A55.
Where does the restricted section begin and end?
It runs between the Llanddulas end of the route and Conwy Morfa. Instructors and accompanying drivers should plan to leave the A55 before entering the restricted section.
Does the restriction apply in both directions?
Yes. Learner drivers must avoid the restricted section whether travelling eastbound or westbound.
What should happen if a learner enters the section by mistake?
Stay calm, maintain control and leave at the next safe and lawful opportunity. Do not stop in a live lane, reverse or make a sudden unsafe manoeuvre.
Can learners still practise high-speed road driving nearby?
Yes. Learners can practise joining, leaving, lane discipline and overtaking on other suitable roads where provisional licence holders are permitted.