How to complete a turn in the road

Lesson Type
Manual
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Last updated: 15 Nov 2019

The turn in the road, also called the three-point turn, though no longer examined on the driving test, is a manoeuvre instructors are still encouraged to teach in your driving lessons. It’s a relatively simple manoeuvre, although it does demand accurate control of the vehicle and good spacial awareness.

Turn in the road tips

  • Although it’s sometimes referred to as a ‘three-point turn’, you do not have to complete a turn in the road using only three turns. As long as you don’t take an excessive amount of time, always maintain observations, don’t hit the kerb and don’t break any other rules, you’re okay.
  • Be mindful of the natural curve or ‘camber’ of the road. Particularly steep cambers can cause you to roll into the kerb by accident, failing the manoeuvre. Use your clutch and brakes to keep the car under control.
  • The turn in the road should be started when the road is clear, but if traffic builds up, you are allowed to let them pass before you’re finished. Just ensure that you’re making your observations!
  • Maintain a slow and steady speed. Performing your turn in the road at super-speed won’t impress the examiner.

Turn in the road video transcript

  1. Choose a safe place with no obstructions and good visibility. Indicate and stop on the left hand side of the road, as if you were pulling up to park.
  2. Ensure the road is clear in front and behind you. Check your blind spot over your right shoulder.
  3. When you’re sure it’s safe to do so, move away slowly, turning your wheel to the right until the car is horizontal across the middle of the road.
  4. When your car is about half a metre away from the kerb, turn your wheel back to the left so that your wheels are straight. Apply your handbrake and select reverse gear.
  1. Find your biting point and continue to check in all directions. Release the handbrake and steer very slowly to the left until the back wheels are around half a metre from the kerb.
  2. Apply the handbrake, select first gear and check in all directions once more. Drive forward, turning the wheel slowly to the right.
  3. As you straighten up on the left hand side of the road, turn the wheel back to the left so your wheel are facing forwards. The manoeuvre is complete.