ive got my licence, dont have a bike at the moment though. But this is what I did have



In my opinion you dont need to duck and weave through traffic for quicker commute as when doing this through traffic can be very nerve racking for a beginner.
However all that you need to do for a quicker commute is get to the start of the lights when traffic is at a red light.
Which is easy when all the traffic is stopped, i usually just rode past everyone on the left hand side and its even easier when there is a bike lane which you are legally allowed to use for up to 50 metres.

You have to also remember that the commute maybe shorter but you spend a bit longer gearing up before every ride and then taking it off again.