Manoeuvres

There are four standard reverse manoeuvres that you will be required to know how to perform. You will be asked to perform two of them as part of your driving test. Remember, you are allowed to remove your seatbelt for reversing manoeuvres but make you sure you refit it when finished.

These manoeuvres are:

You may also be asked to carry out an optional Controlled Emergency Stop. This is only required in roughly one test in every three these days. It does not count as one of the set manoeuvres.

You should practice these manoeuvres during lessons, and with family and friends, so that you get a feel for their usage in normal driving. Around town, you will probably find that reverse parallel parking and bay parking are your most important day-to-day manoeuvres, incorporating elements of the other two.

Turn In The Road

This manoeuvre is often called a three-point turn. You don’t have to take three points to do it; it’s just quicker that way. You can take as many "points" as you want, so long as you take good observations and maintain good control. However, don’t take more than a reasonable time to complete it as you are presenting a hazard to other road users. Remember to take good observations, particularly at blind spots, during the manoeuvre, in case cyclists sneak up on you, and be ready to give way if another road user appears during your manoeuvre. If they wait for you, don’t panic, just finish your manoeuvre.

Reverse Around A Corner

The two most common causes of failing this manoeuvre are over-steering, causing you to strike the kerb, or under-steering, causing you to end up too far from the kerb. There is no quick way around this; you just need to practice. If another road user appears during your manoeuvre, be ready to give way, or move out of their way safely, and restart the manoeuvre.

Reverse Parallel Parking

The most common reason for failure in this manoeuvre is mounting the kerb. Remember you should ensure that you have adjusted your mirrors for a clearer view to the rear prior to setting off. If you have been driving with family or friends, the chances are you will have had to use this manoeuvre in real life in a far smaller space than you will be allowed on your test. Remember you have the extra space, and remember to stay in control of the vehicle, and give way to other road users. If you think you are coming in too sharp or are about to strike the kerb, stop, and reposition yourself. The examiner is testing your ability to park safely, not perfectly.

Reverse Bay Parking

This manoeuvre will only be carried out if there is a car park at the test centre. In order to correctly pass this manoeuvre, you must park the car reasonably straight and reasonably central between the bay lines. Remember that crossing the bay lines before the car is parked is not immediately an issue, provided that you straighten up safely before you finish.

Controlled Emergency Stop

Only carried out on one test in every three. You should be able to stop the vehicle promptly and under full control when given the signal by the examiner. Even if this exercise is not requested you may have to do one for real- so be prepared!