All road users, drivers and pedestrians need to know about The Highway Code.

Put together by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) and the Department for Transport (DfT), The Highway Code helps to make UK roads safer and to create a working transport system.

 

What is The Highway Code?

First introduced in 1931, The Highway Code is an extensive guide to the rules of the road.

It is regularly updated in line with any vehicle or driving practice developments and law changes.

It is made up of rules, regulations, and guidelines that road users must follow.

Whilst The Highway Code is the same in England, Scotland and Wales, Northern Ireland’s differs slightly.

Not only do the rules apply to drivers and pedestrians, but they also apply to cyclists, horse riders, mobility scooter users and motorcyclists.

 

Is The Highway Code Part of the Practical Driving Test?

You need to be able to show a good working knowledge of The Highway Code during your practical driving test, but there is no direct test on it.

The practical driving test mainly focuses on you being able to demonstrate safe driving in line with the principles set out by The Highway Code.

 

Is The Highway Code Part of the Theory Test?

The driving theory test includes a multiple-choice test and hazard perception section, so you should study The Highway Code in advance of your test.

Whilst the theory test does include questions relating to The Highway Code, it also covers other topics relating to road safety and driving behaviour.

 

Is The Code Law?

Whilst The Highway Code isn’t law, many of the rules laid out in The Highway Code do represent laws.

Certain rules are legally binding as they reference specific laws and are highlighted by the words MUST or MUST NOT in the text.

If you break such laws, then you could face a fine, penalty points on your licence, or even a prison sentence.

Other rules may not be legally binding, but could still be referenced in court to establish liability in the case of an accident.

 

Where Can I Read The Highway Code?

You can read The Highway Code on the gov.uk website if you live in England, Scotland or Wales, or on the nidirect website if you live in Northern Ireland.

You can also order a copy of The Highway Code book online. 

 

What Does The Highway Code Cover?

The Highway Code is essential reading for all road users, and covers the following sections, amongst others:

  • Rules for pedestrians
  • Rules for cyclists
  • Rules for motorcyclists
  • Rules for animals
  • Rules for powered wheelchair users
  • Rules for mobility scooters
  • Rules for drivers

These are just some of the rules covered by The Highway Code.

The rules also cover driving in adverse weather conditions, traffic signs and road markings.

 

What Are the Rules for Drivers?

For drivers, the rules cover areas such as:

  • Ensuring your vehicle complies with regulations
  • Ensuring you are fit to drive
  • Ensuring you can read a number plate 20 metres away
  • Ensuring you don't drive under the influence
  • Ensuring you have a valid licence
  • Ensuring you have insurance
  • Ensuring you wear a seat belt

You should familiarise yourself with the full list of rules by studying the Code.

 

What are the Rules for Pedestrians?

For pedestrians, the rules cover such issues as:

  • Navigating paths and roads
  • Supervising young children
  • The Green Cross Code
  • Using crossings

 

Are Road Signs Covered by The Highway Code?

Most road and traffic signs are covered by The Highway Code.

You can read all about UK road traffic signage on the gov.uk website.

 

When Was The Code Last Updated?

The Department of Transport will update The Highway Code from time to time, to reflect changing driving practices and safety considerations.

Most recent changes to The Highway Code were introduced in January 2022.

These changes include the creation of a 'hierarchy of road users', which lists the road users who have a responsibility to reduce the dangers posed to fellow road users.

A new rule aimed at drivers, motorists, cyclists and horse riders also states that at a junction, you should give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross a road into or from which you are turning.

Provisions were introduced for walking, cycling and riding in shared spaces, and updated guidance was provided for road positioning whilst cycling.

These are just some of the changes that were introduced back in 2022.

Make sure that you stay up to date with any changes to The Highway Code.