We thought you'd need a closer look at the 4 driving test maneuvres at the learner driver stage, but if you simply want the basics, please see our article in the practical & theory test section here.
We also have some video in the TV section of the site. Remember, if you're not confident on any of the maneuvres, ask your driving instructor for extra practice and voice up.
There are 4 main driving manauvres you will need to perform and one time or another:
- Turning in a road (3-Point Turn)
- Reversing around a corner
- Reverse Parking
- Reversing into a bay
Turning in a road (3-point turn) - Note that this manoeuvre isn’t 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 are under control, and don’t take more than the allotted five minutes to turn. Remember to check your mirrors and blind spots often 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.
Reversing around a corner - This manoeuvre you might think you need to be psychic for, as you can’t see around corners, but you don’t, you just need to maintain control of the vehicle. If another road user appears during your manoeuvre, be ready to give way, or move out of their way safely, and re-start the manoeuvre. 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 with your instructor.
Reverse Parking - The most common reason for failure in this manoeuvre is mounting the kerb. Remember it is allowed for you to adjust mirrors and remove your seatbelt for a clearer view to the rear. 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 re-position yourself. The examiner is testing your ability to park safely, not perfectly.
Reversing into a bay - This manoeuvre is optional to the driving test, but is almost certain to be assessed if there is a car park at the test centre, or if you pass a car park in the course of your test. As most driving tests are conducted in urban areas, you will almost certainly meet a car park of some sort. In order to correctly pass this manoeuvre, you must squarely park the car 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.
Good luck and remember to have a look at the TV section for some videos,
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