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Driving Law

Whilst it might not always seem like the most exciting subject, all drivers and learners need to have a solid knowledge of driving law. Knowing the rules of the road doesn’t just mean that you could keep away from any sticky situations with the law—it also means you could avoid putting yourself, and other road users, in danger. To help our readers stay safe on the road, we’ve created our driving law section, which goes in depth on all the rules and regulations surrounding driving. We’ll also go into some of the history of driving law in the UK, so you can see how things have changed over time.

1st February 2022

Smoking in Cars — What are the Rules?

Smoking In Cars: The Law

Around 15% of UK adults smoke, and plenty of them are also drivers or looking at taking lessons soon. If that’s you, we’re here to arm you with the information to stay on the right side of the law—particularly as the rules for smoking in cars change depending on the circumstances. Alternatively, if you’re trying to keep up a New Year’s resolution or in need of motivation to quit smoking, we’ve covered plenty of topics below that could help motivate...

30th January 2022

5 Myths about the 2022 Highway Code Changes Debunked

The updated official Highway Code 2022

The Highway Code has been updated, and some people are getting in a tizz about it (or so we’re told). In terms of tangible consequences, very little has actually changed—if you’re already a considerate and responsible driver, that is. And even if you’re currently studying for the theory test, there’s no need to panic. That’s not to say you don’t need to be aware of the new rules; you do. But it’s all sensible stuff. Here’s a myth-busting rundown of...

16th November 2021

When Can I Drive after Drinking the Night Before?

Patience is a virtue. And if you drank a lot the night before, you’ll need to wait to get behind the wheel. Party season or no party season, there are rules in place aiming to eliminate drink-drivers from our roads—which might be inconvenient for your plans, but puts everyone at less risk. We’ll get to the myths suggesting you can sober up quicker by doing this or doing that… but to start with, we’re going to get to grips with...

26th October 2021

Is Middle Lane Hogging Against the Law?

I’m illegal, cause congestion and road rage, and I could get you a £100 fine plus 3 points on your licence. What am I? Sadly, not a terrible Christmas cracker joke. We’re talking middle lane hogging — one of the most annoying driving habits for motorists in the UK. But loads of drivers aren’t even aware that what they’re doing is wrong. Take a look at our guide to see what the law says about it, and how you can...

8th July 2021

Driving Abroad: GB Stickers Make Their Exit

GB car sticker with 'cancel' cross through it

Euro road trip planned for later this year? The latest target for Brexit law changes is the GB sticker. Remember, failure to display the correct stickers and carry the correct equipment can land you with a fine — not the best way to spend your holiday Euros! Here’s everything you need to know: GB Sticker Exiting on 28 September 2021 After 111 years, the GB sticker that Eurotripping drivers have been donning on their bumpers are being scrapped. In its...

18th March 2021

Police and Authorised Person Hand Signals Explained

A police officer giving a stop hand signal

Signs and signals play a key role in helping to keep drivers safe on the roads—but it isn’t just permanent signs you need to look out for. Certain authorised people can also direct you by giving you hand signals. But because you probably won’t see the police and others using hand gestures all that often, you might not recognise them when you do. We’re here to help rectify that. We’ll take you through who has the authority to stop your...

11th March 2021

Highways England Wants to Hear from YOU: How Can The Highway Code Be Improved?

Smart motorway with hard shoulder open

As a nation, the people of the UK are quite an opinionated bunch. Lord knows we have plenty to say about how other people act on the road, anyway! The DVSA and Highways England have launched a consultation for members of the public, which presents an opportunity for you to put your griping to good use. So, whether it’s cyclists, pedestrians, or drivers whose behaviour often gets your goat, you now have a chance to get your voice heard—and maybe...

3rd March 2021

Driving When Tired: Should You Take the Risk?

View from car windscreen showing blurred lights on road

Have you ever felt sleepy behind the wheel? Suddenly realised that for the last few monotonous minutes on the motorway you’d completely zoned out? Well, PassMeFast is here to snap you out of that behaviour! These scenarios are worryingly common and very dangerous. Yep, that’s right—driving when tired is incredibly risky. In fact, according to the AA, 1 in 5 accidents on major roads are caused by tiredness. If you’ve ever been guilty of driving while drowsy, this article can...

11th January 2021

Guide: Changing the Name and/or Gender on your Driving Licence

Driving licence

Many people earn their driving licences in their late teens or early twenties. As a result, over the course of your life, you may find that some of the information listed on the card is no longer accurate. Be it a change in address, name or gender, the DVLA does provide a way for you to update this information. In this guide we explain exactly how to go about changing the name (including preferred title, if applicable) and/or gender listed...

5th December 2020

Passing Parked Cars: Who Has Priority?

One yellow car amongst a line of parked cars

Although roads are primarily used for getting from A to B, they also often serve as a car park when you get where you want to go. That means that as a driver, you need to be able to navigate your way past parked cars safely. A fair bit of learning to drive is learning how to react appropriately to different situations. But you rarely have to fully improvise. There are rules which you should be able to adapt to...