The Highway Code and the theory test: what to read, hierarchy of road users, H1 to H3
Updated •4 min read
The Highway Code is free to read on gov.uk, and the car theory test's multiple-choice questions are based on it. Read the current online version, which gov.uk says was last updated on 22 October 2025.
Where to read the Highway Code
gov.uk publishes the Highway Code online for free (gov.uk: The Highway Code). It applies in England, Scotland and Wales, and gov.uk calls it essential reading for everyone.
gov.uk says the theory test's multiple-choice questions are based on three books: the Highway Code, Know your traffic signs, and Driving - the essential skills (gov.uk: revision and practice). Our guide to how to revise shows how to plan your reading, and the topics guide lists the areas covered.
Which edition to use
Use the online version on gov.uk, because it shows the date it was last updated and links to all updates (gov.uk: introduction).
gov.uk does not publish a list of Highway Code rules that appear in the test. The page does not say which edition the question bank follows, so read the current online version and use the official practice tests.
Why "must" and "should" matter
Rules marked MUST or MUST NOT are legal requirements. Breaking them is a criminal offence that can lead to fines, penalty points, disqualification or prison.
Other rules use "should". gov.uk says failing to follow those will not in itself lead to prosecution, but the Code may still be used in evidence in court. In revision, notice which wording each rule uses.
The hierarchy of road users
The introduction explains the hierarchy of road users. gov.uk says it places those most at risk in a collision at the top, and that it does not remove the need for everyone to behave responsibly (gov.uk: introduction).
Rules H1 to H3
Three rules sit under the heading "Road users requiring extra care":
- Rule H1: Those controlling vehicles that can cause the most harm carry the greatest responsibility to take care.
- Rule H2: At junctions, give way to pedestrians crossing the road you are turning into or out of. You must give way to pedestrians on a zebra crossing.
- Rule H3: Do not cut across cyclists, horse riders or horse-drawn vehicles going ahead when turning or changing lane. Wait for a safe gap if necessary.
The 2022 changes
The introduction page we checked does not describe the 2022 changes, so we do not summarise them here. See gov.uk's "see all updates" link on that page for the history.
gov.uk does not say how many test questions cover them. Be ready for scenarios: a cyclist going straight on while you turn left, or a pedestrian waiting to cross at a junction.
How to study the rules
- Read the sections in the order of your weak topics, not page one onwards.
- Learn the MUST rules first, because they are legal requirements.
- Take official practice tests (gov.uk: take a practice theory test), which are free.
- Use free practice questions to repeat the topics you miss.
If you are not sure where to start, the free theorytest.ai diagnostic shows which topics need work. When you are ready to book, see test centres near you.
theorytest.ai is independent and is not affiliated with the DVSA or DVLA.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Highway Code on the theory test?
Yes. gov.uk says the multiple-choice questions are based on the Highway Code, Know your traffic signs and Driving - the essential skills.
Where can I read the Highway Code for free?
On gov.uk. The online version is free and shows when it was last updated.
What is the hierarchy of road users?
gov.uk says it places those most at risk in a collision at the top. It does not remove everyone's duty to behave responsibly.
What do rules H1 to H3 say?
H1 gives greater responsibility to those in control of vehicles that can cause the most harm. H2 covers giving way to pedestrians at junctions. H3 covers not cutting across cyclists and horse riders.
Do I need to memorise rule numbers?
gov.uk does not say you must. Focus on what each rule requires and whether the wording is MUST or should.