Because of the nonlinear and strong coupling characteristics of switched reluctance motor (SRM), the traditional control method was difficult to achieve satisfactory results. A sliding mode variable structure control method for the three stage linear switching line was introduced. This method was different from the conventional variable structure control. It could make the motor run on the sliding mode from the beginning, and ensures that the system sliding mode could be reached. Its main characteristic was simple and easy to implement. The simulation results showed that the method could quickly and stably track the given speed. It had good adaptability and robustness.