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Conducting a U-Turn in a Cul De Sac & Street
October 27, 2022 at 12:31 PM
Doing a U-turn in a Cul De Sac
When approaching a cul de sac, the first thing we should do is check our rear vision mirror. We will do this well before the end of the street, so we are aware of what’s behind us. After that, we look ahead and anticipate what’s happening ahead. While we are doing that, we indicate to the right and start to slow down early, so we have plenty of time to anticipate the situation ahead. We approach the cul de sac at a speed that allows us to stop if we need to, but at the same time, we keep the vehicle moving very slowly if it is safe to do so. As we are about to start turning, we check our right outer side mirror and blind spot on the right side, to make sure we are aware of a vehicle behind us that might overtake us as we are about to do our U-turn. If it’s safe, we turn our steering wheel quickly full lock to the right. Make sure to look where you want the car to go and go slow, so we can stop if we can’t make our U-turn. If we can’t make the U-turn, we will have to do a 3-point turn. Once we come around and we can be sure that we can make the U-turn, we accelerate more as the car straightens up, but only if it is safe to do so. We have a good look ahead to scan/ search for any information that is given to us. Once we are settled, we can check the rear vision mirror to see what’s behind us.
Doing a U-Turn in a Wide Street
When doing a U-turn in a wide street, the first thing we need to do is stop in a safe place on the left side of the road. We check our rear vision mirror and indicate to the left. We slow down and stop close to the kerb in a safe and legal place. Once we have stopped, we check our rear vision mirror and right outer mirror to see if it is safe to do our U-turn. Once it is safe, we indicate to the right. We check our rear vision mirror and right outer side mirror again and we also do a blind spot check on the right. If it’s safe, we turn our steering wheel quickly full lock to the right. Make sure to look where you want the car to go and go slow, so we can stop if we can’t make our U-turn. Once we come around and we can be sure that we can make the U-turn, we accelerate more as the car straightens up, but only if it is safe to do so. We have a good look ahead to scan/ search for any information that is given to us. Once we are settled, we can check the rear vision mirror to see what’s behind us.
FAQs
1) How should I prepare for the New Zealand driving test?
Combine professional lessons with regular supervised practice. Book a pre-test assessment to benchmark your readiness, tidy up habits, and get route-style familiarity. Study core road rules and use a checklist for observation, speed choice, signalling, gap selection, and positioning.
2) What do testing officers look for on the day?
Clear mirror–signal–manoeuvre, frequent shoulder checks, legal speed control, smooth vehicle handling, correct lane discipline, and consistent hazard perception. You must follow signs/markings precisely and give way correctly to vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists.
3) What are the most common reasons candidates fail?
Poor observation (missed shoulder checks), speed creep above limits, rolling Stop lines, weak gap selection, late signalling, and inconsistent lane positioning. Nerves amplify errors, so rehearse with mock tests and focus on a calm, repeatable routine.
4) Should I do a pre-test assessment and in which car?
Yes. A pre-test mirrors exam standards, exposes weak spots early, and boosts first-attempt success. If possible, use the same vehicle you’ll take to the test (controls, bite point, mirrors, driver-assist settings), so nothing feels unfamiliar on the day.
5) How do I control nerves during the test?
Arrive early, breathe slowly (4-second inhale/exhale cycles), and stick to your normal lesson routine. Narrate quietly in your head (signs, hazards, mirrors) to maintain focus. Treat mistakes as isolated—reset with a deep breath and continue safely.
6) What should I bring and check before the test?
Bring your licence, test confirmation, and payment method if needed. Ensure the car is legal and roadworthy (WoF/rego, tyres, lights, horn, washers/wipers, demisters, fuel). Set seat, mirrors, and steering before moving; remove screen obstructions (mounts, dangling tags).
7) Any day-of driving tips to lift my score?
Drive smoothly: progressive acceleration/braking, steady corner speeds, and clear gap choices. Read the road far ahead; keep a safe following distance; scan for vulnerable road users. If an unexpected event occurs, slow, assess, and prioritise safety—that’s scored positively.
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