This is the backbone section of the Highway Code for anyone learning to drive, covering everything from being medically and mentally fit to drive through to how you should observe, plan, and react on the road. It sits roughly in the rules 88 to 158 range, and almost every other section of the Highway Code builds on the principles set out here.
Because it's so broad, the theory test draws on this section constantly, across multiple-choice categories including alertness, attitude, safety and your vehicle, and safety margins. Learners who skim this section tend to lose easy marks on questions about legal requirements versus advisory good practice.
Fitness to drive
You must not drive if you're too tired, unwell, or under the influence of drink or drugs, including some prescription and over-the-counter medicines that carry warnings about driving. This is a legal requirement, not just good advice, and mock test questions often test whether you know that certain medicines require you to check the label or ask a pharmacist before driving.
Seatbelts and mobile phones
Seatbelts must be worn by driver and passengers unless a specific legal exemption applies, and it's the driver's responsibility to ensure passengers under 14 are belted correctly. Using a hand-held phone or similar device while driving is illegal, including when stopped at traffic lights or in queuing traffic, and this extends to functions like taking photos or scrolling, not just calls.
- Hands-free use is legal but still discouraged because it remains a distraction.
- You may use a hand-held phone only if safely parked with the engine off, or in a genuine emergency where stopping isn't safe.
- Sat-nav and similar devices should be set up before you set off.
Observation and planning ahead
Good driving in this section is framed around scanning well ahead, checking mirrors regularly, and anticipating what other road users might do rather than just reacting to what's directly in front of you. This mindset underpins the hazard perception test, which rewards early recognition of developing hazards rather than a late reaction.
Vehicle control basics
The section also covers matters like keeping both hands on the wheel where possible, not letting anything obstruct your view, and making sure you can be seen clearly by others through clean windows and working lights. These basics come up in safety and your vehicle questions on the theory test.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a hands-free phone while driving?
Yes, hands-free use is legal, but the Highway Code still advises against it because talking on any phone is a distraction that can affect your concentration. It's best to keep such calls short and pull over if you need to focus fully.
Is it ever legal to use a hand-held phone while driving?
Only if you're safely parked with the engine switched off, or in a genuine emergency and it isn't safe to stop. Using it at traffic lights or in a queue still counts as driving and is illegal.
Do all passengers have to wear a seatbelt?
Yes, unless a specific legal exemption applies, and the driver is responsible for making sure passengers under 14 are wearing one correctly. This is a MUST rule, not just advisory guidance.
Can I drive after taking over-the-counter medicine?
You must check the label or ask a pharmacist first, since some common medicines cause drowsiness or affect reaction times enough to make driving illegal or unsafe. Treat any drowsiness warning as seriously as you would alcohol.
What is the theory test really checking with 'attitude' questions?
It's checking whether you understand considerate, patient behaviour towards other road users, such as not pressuring slower drivers or reacting aggressively to mistakes. These questions often have an obvious 'correct' answer once you think about courtesy rather than speed.