According to a recent poll by Seat, over half of UK drivers admitted they had not read the Highway Code in the last five years, if at all, nor consulted official Highway Code resources online. The Code was significantly updated in January 2022, introducing new priorities for road users. Although it is not law in itself, many of its rules are backed by legal obligations, according to the RAC.
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What is the Highway Code?
Introduced in 1931, the Highway Code is a set of rules and guidelines for all road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders, motorcyclists, and drivers. It is not just for learner drivers.
The Code is published under the authority of the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) and the Department for Transport (DfT). It brings together rules, regulations, and guidance that help ensure safety on UK roads.
If road users disobey rules that are reflected in legislation, they may face penalties, fines, or prosecution.
The Highway Code is regularly updated. One of the most significant changes in recent years introduced a hierarchy of road users, prioritising those most at risk in the event of a collision.
Little known facts about the Highway Code
The Highway Code contains a wide range of information, from speed limits and stopping distances to road markings, signs, and pedestrian guidance. Even experienced drivers can forget important rules over time.
Some lesser-known facts include:
- When first published in 1931, the Highway Code cost just one penny and was only 18 pages long.
- It originally included advertisements and did not mention mirrors.
- There are now multiple recognised types of pedestrian crossings, including zebra, pelican, puffin, and toucan crossings.
- Rule updates regularly reflect changes in road safety, technology, and transport behaviour.
If you’re unsure how road rules change, you can stay up to date with the Highway Code Updates.
Why is it important to know the Highway Code?
Understanding the Highway Code is essential for staying safe and legal on the road. It provides guidance for handling everyday driving situations such as junctions, overtaking, crossings, and emergencies.
Many rules also align with legal requirements. Breaking them can result in fines, penalty points, driving disqualification, or in serious cases, prosecution.
Revisiting the Highway Code regularly ensures drivers stay updated with the latest changes and maintain safe driving habits.
Is the Highway Code covered in the theory test?
Yes. The Highway Code forms the foundation of the driving theory test.
The test consists of two parts:
- Multiple-choice section: 50 questions (pass mark: 43)
- Hazard perception section: 14 video clips (pass mark: 44 out of 75)
Both sections are based on Highway Code knowledge and real-world driving scenarios.
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Is the Highway Code discussed in a practical driving test?
Yes. While you are not directly tested on memorising the Highway Code, your knowledge is assessed through your driving behaviour and safety awareness.
You will also be asked:
- One “tell me” question before driving
- One “show me” question while driving
These questions relate to vehicle safety checks and controls, all of which are rooted in Highway Code principles.
Failing to answer them correctly will not fail your test on its own, but poor driving performance overall can still result in failure.
For more support, learners are encouraged to regularly review Highway Code guidance and practise with a qualified instructor.
Conclusion
You can also improve your understanding of road rules with our full breakdown of driver essentials in our guide to road safety knowledge.
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