Highway Code Information and Guidelines

It is important that all road users are aware of the Code and are considerate towards each other – this applies to both pedestrians and drivers. By correctly applying the rules of the Code, it could significantly reduce road casualties and this is a responsibility we all have to share.

Breaking the rules of the Official Highway Code is a criminal offence, so you will be judged on your familiarity with them during your practical driving test.

Some of the most important rules are:

Don’t drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medicine
Maximum speed limits are not a target. Use common sense to determine what speed is appropriate for the traffic, road and conditions
When approaching a pedestrian crossing, road works, traffic lights or control system, you have to be able to stop if necessary
Be aware of cyclists and pedestrians around you and anticipate what they might do. Especially tourists and children are likely to step out into the road while looking the other way
Don’t try to intimidate other road users by driving too close behind them. If they pull out into your path at a junction, slow down and hold back so that they can get clear
Don’t play loud music while driving. This is distracting and may mask important sounds around your car
Don’t operate your satnav, sound system, mobile phone or other distracting devices while driving

Before taking your driving theory test, you need to read the full Highway Code online or study ‘The Official DVSA Guide to Driving – the essential skills’, which is available in most bookshops.

Never forget – driving can be fun but it also needs to be taken seriously. One in five new drivers has a crash within six months of passing their test (source: DVSA).

Check out our tips on the Highway Code

How to safely overtake cyclists

Confused how to safely overtake cyclists? Find out what the Highway Code has to say.

Road sign showing directions to Ring Road from a roundabout

How to navigate roundabouts

Been on a few lessons and struggling with roundabouts? Find out how the Highway Code says to tackle them and you’ll be passing your test in no time!

UK Road Signs - What do they all mean?

With so many road signs to learn in the Highway Code, we’ve chosen a few common ones, to get you well on your way to passing your theory and practical test

UNDERTAKING IN THE UK - WHAT DOES THE HIGHWAY CODE STATE?

We often hear that undertaking in the UK is illegal – but is it really the case? See what the Highway Code has to say.

Yellow and black pedestrian crossing button

Zebra Crossing rules in the UK

Who has right of way on a zebra crossing? We dispel some common myths

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Failing your test really isn’t the end of the world. We all have bad days, and sometimes nerves can get the better of us.

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Highway Code

Know your code!