Annex 8 - Safety code for new drivers

This code will help you drive safely in your first year after passing the driving test, when you are most vulnerable.

You should always follow the Highway Code.

  1. It’s most dangerous driving at night - don’t drive between midnight and 6am unless it’s really necessary.

  2. Don’t let passengers distract you or encourage you to take risks - tell them that you need to concentrate on the road.

  3. Never show off or try to compete with other drivers, particularly if they are driving badly.

  4. Don’t drive if you’ve drunk any alcohol or taken drugs. Some medicines can affect your ability to drive safely - always read the warning on the label.

  5. Make sure everyone’s wearing a seat belt throughout the journey.

  6. Keep your speed down - especially on bends.

  7. Be very careful driving high-powered or sporty cars - even if you learnt to drive in one.

  8. You must have insurance - it’s an offence to drive without it.

You’ll lose your licence if you get 6 penalty points within 2 years of passing your first driving test. You’ll need to pass both tests again to get it back.

Content

Introduction 
Rules for pedestrians (1 to 35)
Rules for users of powered wheelchairs and powered mobility scooters (36 to 46) 
Rules about animals (47 to 58)
Rules for cyclists (59 to 82)
Rules for motorcyclists (83 to 88)
Rules for drivers and motorcyclists (89 to 102)
General rules, techniques and advice for all drivers and riders (103 to 158)
Using the road (159 to 203)
Road users requiring extra care (204 to 225) 
Driving in adverse weather conditions (226 to 237)
Waiting and parking (238 to 252)
Motorways (253 to 273)
Breakdowns and incidents (274 to 287)
Road works, level crossings and tramways (288 to 307)

Signs and Signals
Direction signs on roads and motorways
Information signs
Light signals controlling traffic 
Road markings 
Road signs giving orders
Road works signs
Signals by authorised persons
Signals to other road users
Traffic signs 
Vehicle markings
Warning signs

Annexes
Penalties
Vehicle maintenance, safety and security 
First aid on the road
Safety Code for new drivers