The hierarchy of road users, passing distances for cyclists and horses, and protecting pedestrians — a heavily tested topic since 2022.
What does this topic cover?
The people most at risk: pedestrians (especially children, older and disabled people), cyclists, motorcyclists and horse riders — the 2022 hierarchy rules, junction priority, safe passing distances, and clues like a white cane (red band = deaf and blind) or a school crossing patrol.
Which Highway Code rules should I revise?
Rules H1–H3 (the hierarchy — examiners love it), 163 (passing distances), 170 (junction priority for pedestrians), 204–218 (the vulnerable users chapter), and 214–215 (animals and horse riders).
Test yourself on Vulnerable Road Users
Free Vulnerable Road Users practice questions in the official four-option format, with explained answers and Highway Code references.
Start the Vulnerable Road Users practice testFrequently asked questions
What is the hierarchy of road users?
Rules H1–H3, added in 2022: those who can do most harm bear most responsibility. Give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross at junctions, and don't cut across cyclists or horse riders going straight ahead.
What are the official passing distances?
At least 1.5 metres for cyclists at up to 30 mph (more when faster); at least 2 metres and under 10 mph for horses; 2 metres for pedestrians walking in the road.
Revise the rest of the syllabus in the 14 DVSA topics directory, or sit the full free mock theory test.