Driving Manoeuvres: Parking, Reversing & More
Manoeuvres test precise vehicle control at low speed. Your examiner will ask you to perform at least one manoeuvre during your test — and could ask for any of these four.
The key to all manoeuvres is the same: slow speed, full observations, and controlled steering. Accuracy matters, but safety and observations matter more.
Track Your Manoeuvre ProgressReversing
Reversing safely requires good all-round observation, slow controlled speed, and smooth steering. It forms the foundation for bay parking, parallel parking, and any time you need to back up.
Reversing principles
- ✓ Check all around the car before reversing
- ✓ Move at a very slow, controlled speed — use clutch to control
- ✓ Keep checking all mirrors and blind spots throughout
- ✓ Stop immediately if a pedestrian or vehicle approaches
- ✓ You don't have to reverse in a straight line — keep it under control
The 5 levels for Skill 17
- 1 Introduced: Instructor guides every movement and observation
- 2 Helped: Reverses with significant instructor input
- 3 Prompted: Generally controlled; needs prompts for observations
- 4 Independent: Reverses safely and smoothly without prompting
- 5 Reflection: Adapts technique for different situations; acts immediately on hazards
Turning the Car Around
The turn in the road (formerly called the three-point turn) requires precise clutch control, full observations throughout, and confidence in tight spaces. You may need more than three moves — that's fine.
Turn in the road — key points
- ✓ Choose a safe, quiet location away from junctions
- ✓ Full all-round observations before each move
- ✓ Move very slowly — clutch control is everything
- ✓ Turn steering wheel briskly at low speed
- ✓ Stop before mounting the kerb — adjust if needed
- ✓ Give way to passing traffic at every stage
The 5 levels for Skill 18
- 1 Introduced: Instructor steers; learner controls speed
- 2 Helped: Attempts manoeuvre with frequent guidance
- 3 Prompted: Completes it but may miss observations or mount kerb
- 4 Independent: Completes safely and under control
- 5 Reflection: Selects safe locations; adapts to road width; stays calm under pressure
Parking
You'll be asked to perform one parking manoeuvre on your test — parallel parking or bay parking (forward or reverse). You're not expected to be perfect, but you must be safe, controlled, and show accurate observations.
Parking types on the test
- Parallel parking Pull up alongside reference vehicle, reverse back and steer into the space, finish close to and parallel with the kerb.
- Reverse bay parking Reverse into a marked bay, finish within the lines, with observations throughout.
- Forward bay parking + reverse out Drive forward into a bay, reverse out with full all-round observations.
The 5 levels for Skill 19
- 1 Introduced: Instructor guides every step of each manoeuvre
- 2 Helped: Attempts parking with significant instructor input
- 3 Prompted: Parks mostly independently; misses occasional observation
- 4 Independent: Parks confidently and safely across all types
- 5 Reflection: Adapts to gap size, incline, and traffic; self-corrects without prompting
Emergency Stop
Around 1 in 3 driving tests include an emergency stop. The examiner wants to see a prompt, controlled response — not a panic stop. Modern cars with ABS make it simpler than many learners expect.
The technique
- React immediately to the examiner's raised hand signal
- Press the brake firmly and progressively — don't pump it
- Press the clutch down just before stopping (prevents stall)
- Keep both hands on the wheel, steering straight
- Apply handbrake, select neutral
- Check mirrors before moving off again
With ABS, you may feel the pedal vibrate — this is normal. Keep firm pressure on the brake.
The 5 levels for Skill 20
- 1 Introduced: Instructor explains technique and ABS
- 2 Helped: Attempts stop with coaching during
- 3 Prompted: Stops promptly; occasionally pumps brakes or steers off course
- 4 Independent: Consistently controlled, prompt emergency stops
- 5 Reflection: Understands ABS, stopping distances; moves off safely afterwards
Tracking Progress Across Skills 17–20
Introduced
Following instructor guidance
Helped
Improving with assistance
Prompted
Mostly independent, occasional prompts
Independent
Consistent, confident performance
Reflection
Understands the why — test ready
Your instructor records your level on each skill after every lesson. Aim for Level 5 on all 27 skills before booking your test.
Track Your Manoeuvre Progress
Know exactly which manoeuvres need more practice before test day.
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