Drivers Handbook template
Our Drivers Handbook simplifies safe driving practices, compliance, and company policies, minimising risks and fostering driver awareness.
- 3 pages / 774 words.
- Last updated 13/05/2025.
- Designed for United Kingdom use.
- Suitable for use in other territories; check local laws first.
- Instantly download as Word / PDF / plain text, or send by email.
- Includes 12 months’ access, with all updates to this page provided free of charge and notified to you.
Drivers Handbook
Introduction
This handbook is intended to provide employees with the information they need to drive safely and responsibly while on company business in the UK. It covers a variety of topics, including:
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Vehicle safety
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Traffic laws
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Defensive driving
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Alcohol and drug use
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Mobile phone use
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Smoking
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Vaping
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Cargo loading and securing
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Mileage reimbursement
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Weather-related driving
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Emergency procedures
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Vehicle maintenance
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Maintaining safety/first aid equipment in the vehicle
Vehicle Safety
Before driving a company vehicle, employees should always inspect the vehicle for any damage or defects. They should also make sure that the vehicle is properly fueled and that the tyres are properly inflated.
Employees should always wear their seatbelts when driving a company vehicle. They should also avoid driving while tired or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Traffic Laws
Employees must obey all traffic laws when driving a company vehicle in the UK. This includes speed limits, stop signs, and traffic signals.
Defensive Driving
Defensive driving is a driving style that is designed to avoid accidents. Defensive drivers are always aware of their surroundings and are prepared to take evasive action if necessary.
Some tips for defensive driving include:
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Be aware of your surroundings
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Leave plenty of space
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The purpose of a Drivers Handbook is to provide essential information and guidelines to drivers within an organisation.
It outlines company policies, procedures, and best practices related to driving, safety, vehicle operation, and compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
The Drivers Handbook serves as a reference guide to ensure consistent and safe driving practices, promoting driver awareness, and minimising risks associated with driving activities. It also helps to establish clear expectations and standards for drivers, ensuring their understanding of their responsibilities and obligations while driving on behalf of the organisation.
It is usually delivered to the Employee by the Employer / HR.
It should be actioned for new drivers, and as a regular refresher.
Compliance
Compliance
This Drivers Handbook template incorporates relevant UK laws and HR standards, including those listed below:
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Road Traffic Act 1988: Sets regulations for driving on public roads, including licensing, insurance, and vehicle requirements.
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Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974: Imposes employer responsibilities to ensure driver safety in the workplace.
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Working Time Regulations 1998: Regulates working hours, rest breaks, and rest periods for drivers.
Timings
Timings
Follow these best practice actions to get the most from the Drivers Handbook template, guiding you before, during, and after implementation:
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| Step | Description | Responsibility | Timing |
| 1 | Notify Employee: Inform the employee about the availability of the Drivers Handbook. | HR / Supervisor | N/A |
| 2 | Provide the Handbook: Issue the Handbook to the employee for review and reference. | HR / Supervisor | Day 1 |
| 3 | Request Signature: Ask the employee to read and sign an acknowledgment of receipt. | HR / Supervisor | Day 3 |
| 4 | Conduct Ongoing Training: Schedule regular training sessions to reinforce driving safety practices and updates. | HR / Training Team | Ongoing |
| 5 | Monitor Compliance: Ensure employees adhere to the Handbook guidelines through regular checks and feedback. | HR / Management Team | Ongoing |
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use this template in my small business?
Yes. The Drivers Handbook template is designed to be flexible and suitable for organisations of all sizes, including small businesses and charities. It follows UK employment law best practice, so even if you don't have an in-house HR team, you can confidently apply it.
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Is this template compliant with 2025 UK employment law?
Absolutely. All of our templates are drafted with the latest ACAS guidance and UK employment legislation in mind. We review and update them regularly, so you can be confident they remain compliant.
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Can I customise it for my organisation?
Yes, we highlight the areas that you need to update with your own details, and where you need to make decisions to suit your situation. This saves you time and ensures that you meet best practice.
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Do I get instant access?
Yes. Once purchased, you'll be able to download it instantly. Templates are provided in editable Word or Excel format so you can customise them easily, and in PDF format for easy sharing.
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What if I need more help, not just this template?
If you're looking for broader support, we also offer toolkits and library bundles that include this template, along with other HR templates and policies for fully managing your situation. These may be more cost-effective if you need deeper advice.
