You are required to know how to perform three standard manoeuvres, with the possibility of an additional one (reversing into a parking bay, used only where the test centre has a car park).
During the practical test, you will be asked by the examiner to perform two of the following:
It is crucial that you feel confident demonstrating all of these techniques. If you fail to complete the set manoeuvre safely and correctly within the allotted time, the examiner will record a serious fault that will cause you to fail the test.
What’s more, reverse parking and bay parking (which incorporate elements of the other two techniques) are among of the most important features of day-to-day driving.
Your driving instructor will have spent a lot of time focusing specifically on these manoeuvres, but it is advisable to get in as much extra-curricular practice as possible in order to develop a feel for their usage in normal driving.
Turning in the Road
This manoeuvre is commonly – and inaccurately – referred to as the ‘3-point turn’. It is not necessary to complete the turn in 3 points, although this is the quickest way. You may take as many points as you wish so long as you are in control and complete the manoeuvre within 5 minutes. Don’t forget to keep checking your mirrors/ blind spots and give way to other road users if necessary. Stay calm and resist the temptation to rush if another vehicle waits for you to finish.
Reversing around a Corner
The key to this manoeuvre is maintaining control of the vehicle. The two most common mistakes are over-steering, resulting in striking the kerb, and under-steering, leaving the vehicle too far away from the kerb. Commit either of these two errors and you will fail the test. Mastering the technique takes time and there is really no alternative to practice if you want to get it right.
Reverse Parking
The major mistake to avoid here is mounting the kerb. Take your time and stay in control of the car. Don’t forget that you can remove your seatbelt and adjust the mirrors to get a clearer view to the rear. Chances are you will have practiced reversing into much smaller spaces than you will be allowed in the test. Stop and re-position yourself if you feel you are coming in too sharply or are going to strike the kerb. Don’t try to be too perfect. The examiner just wants to know that you can complete the manoeuvre safely.
Reversing into a Parking Bay
This manoeuvre will only be assessed if the test centre has a car park or the set route passes another test centre’s car park. You need to be able to park the car squarely between the bay lines. It does not matter if you cross the bay lines in the process of parking, provided you straighten up before completing the manoeuvre.