How to do a three-point turn
Updated October 2026
The three-point turn, also called a turn in the road or a K-turn, lets you turn round on a road too narrow for a U-turn. It is three moves at full lock: forward to the far kerb, back to the near kerb, forward again into your new lane. The skill is in the observation, not the steering.
These steps assume right-hand traffic, with the kerb on your right. If you drive on the left, swap every left and right.
Step by step
Choose a safe place
Pick a straight, quiet stretch with a clear view both ways, not on a bend, hill or junction. Stop close to the right-hand kerb if you drive on the right.
Move 1: forward at full lock left
Signal left, check the mirrors and look over your shoulder. When it is safe, creep forward and turn the wheel fully left, then straighten just before the far kerb. Stop short of it.
Move 2: reverse at full lock right
Look all round, select reverse and turn the wheel fully right as the car begins to creep back. Straighten the wheel just before the other kerb and stop.
Move 3: forward at full lock left
Look again, select first gear or drive and turn the wheel fully left to bring the car round into the lane. Straighten the wheels as the car settles.
Settle into your lane
Cancel the signal, accelerate gently and drive on.
Common mistakes
- Steering at standstill. Turn the wheel while the car is moving, even if only at a creep.
- Going too fast. The car reaches the kerb before you have finished steering. A slow, steady creep keeps you in control.
- Not looking before each move. Traffic can appear at any time. Look before each of the three moves, not only the first.
- Touching the kerb. Judge the distance with the mirrors and stop a clear gap from it.
Tips that make it easier
- A smaller turning circle means fewer moves. Your car’s turning circle is in the garage in ParkingAim.
- If a car comes, stop and let it pass. Do not try to beat it.
- On a very narrow road you may need five moves; that is fine and safe.
In the driving test
The turn in the road is a standard manoeuvre in many driving tests. You are assessed on observation, car control and not touching the kerb.
Quick answers
Why is it called a three-point turn?
Because the car makes three movements: forward, back and forward. Some call it a K-turn after the shape of its path.
Is a three-point turn always allowed?
No. Do not do one on motorways, near bends or junctions, or where signs forbid it.
How much steering do I need?
Full lock each time, about one and a half turns of the wheel, but keep the car creeping while you steer.
Practise it in ParkingAim
The three-point turn is a lesson in ParkingAim’s special manoeuvres, with the three moves marked on the road as you make them.
- Turn Around in a Narrow StreetThree moves, then stop in the FINISH boxFull Version
Park it for real, without the risk
ParkingAim is a parking trainer for iPhone, iPad and Mac. A calm instructor’s voice talks you through each move in a 3D city, sized to your car. Three lessons are free.
