The Highway Code: What Learner Drivers Should Keep in Mind

Why the Highway Code matters beyond the test

The Highway Code applies to every road user, not only learners preparing for a test. Good instruction should teach you not just how to operate a car, but how to drive legally and safely within the rules that everyone else on the road is expected to follow.

Because official guidance is updated from time to time, this article focuses on well-established habits rather than time-sensitive figures. For the current, authoritative rules, always check the official GOV.UK Highway Code and its update history.

Hand-held phones while driving

Using a hand-held phone while driving is illegal in the UK. A simple, reliable habit is to put your phone away and out of reach before you start the engine, and to set up navigation or music before moving off rather than while driving.

The "Dutch reach"

A small habit that prevents a common hazard is the "Dutch reach": using the hand furthest from the door to open it. If you are in the right-hand seat, reach across with your left hand; if you are in the left-hand seat, reach with your right. This naturally turns your shoulders and head, guiding your eyes over your shoulder so you check for cyclists or passing traffic before the door moves.

Practising this as part of a normal "cockpit drill" — mirrors set, seatbelt on, then reach, look, and ease the door open — builds a habit that protects both you and other road users.

Staying current

Highway Code content, speed limits and test-related rules can change. Rather than relying on a fixed list of dates or figures, it's worth checking the official Highway Code updates page periodically, especially as your test date approaches, and asking your instructor how any recent change might affect your lessons.

Combine this awareness with structured practice through driving test preparation to connect the rules with real-world decision-making.