You’ve practiced in city streets, memorized traffic signs, and maybe even passed your LTO test. But driving on the expressway? That’s a whole different game. No stoplights, no tricycles, but higher speeds, tighter rules, and zero room for hesitation.
Many first-time drivers feel nervous (and they should, it’s a responsibility). This blog lays out what you can realistically expect, what might catch you off guard, and what you need to do to stay safe and in control the moment you hit that toll gate.
Expectation: I’ll just keep right and I’ll be fine
Reality: Keeping right is good but only if you’re not crawling
Tip: Stay in the rightmost lane only if you’re maintaining at least 60 km/h. Anything slower becomes dangerous. If you’re too slow, vehicles behind you might get aggressive, or worse, cause an accident. The expressway has a minimum speed limit, typically 60 km/h, and it’s enforced for safety. Practice controlling your speed before attempting your first run.
Expectation: GPS will guide me perfectly
Reality: GPS lags or misleads, especially near exits
Tip: Don’t rely 100% on Waze or Google Maps. Familiarize yourself with your entry and exit points before driving. Know the names of the toll gates, exits, and key landmarks. Expressway exits come fast, and if you miss yours, the next one might be 10–20 km away. Keep an eye out for blue expressway signs, and start changing lanes at least 1 km before your intended exit.
Expectation: Overtaking will feel normal eventually
Reality: It feels terrifying the first time
Tip: If you must overtake, signal early, check all mirrors, and look over your shoulder to clear your blind spot before moving. Never swerve quickly or cut in without a safe gap. If you’re not confident, stay in your lane until traffic allows you to switch with no pressure.
Expectation: It’s just like a regular road—just longer
Reality: The speed and intensity are totally different
Tip: Before attempting your first expressway drive, practice on wide open roads first, preferably on roads with multiple lanes and light traffic. Build muscle memory with high-speed control, mirror checks, and lane discipline. Also, don’t attempt your first expressway run at night or during a holiday rush. Go during the late morning on a weekday. Less trucks, less pressure.
Expectation: As long as I don’t crash, I’m doing fine
Reality: Your driving affects everyone else too
Tip: Always signal when switching lanes, maintain a safe following distance (at least 3 seconds behind the car in front), and never stop on the shoulder unless it’s an emergency. Flashers are only for breakdowns, not for panic moments. If you feel overwhelmed, exit the expressway at the next opportunity and regroup before trying again.
Additional Must-Knows for First-Time Expressway Drivers:
Toll Payments – Load up your RFID (EasyTrip, AutoSweep) before heading out. If you don’t have one yet, go through the cash lane, but be ready with small bills.
Fuel Check – Gas up before entering. Gas stations on the expressway are few and far between.
Emergency Numbers – Know how to contact expressway patrols (NLEX Patrol, SLEX Patrol, etc.) in case of a flat tire or breakdown.
Weather Watch – Avoid your first expressway drive during heavy rain or low visibility.
The expressway is not something to fear. It’s just something to respect. Master the basics, take it slow, and stay aware. Each drive will build your confidence until, one day, you’ll wonder what you were even nervous about.
Haven’t taken the mandatory 15-hour Online Theoretical Driving Course yet? You can start today. 100% online, LTO-accredited, and self-paced. Enroll now and make sure you’re truly road-ready!
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