Reversing Around a Corner: Complete Guide

This comprehensive guide will teach you how to perform the reversing around a corner manoeuvre correctly for your UK driving test, covering both left and right corners.

Important Safety Note

This manoeuvre should only be practised in quiet areas with good visibility. Avoid busy roads, junctions, or areas with parked vehicles. Always prioritise safety over completing the manoeuvre.

Reversing Around a Left-Hand Corner

1 Initial Approach and Positioning

Find a quiet left-hand turn with good visibility
Pull up about half a metre from the kerb, just before the corner
Apply the handbrake and select neutral (manual) or park (automatic)
Check all mirrors and blind spots before starting

2 Beginning the Reverse

Select reverse gear and check all around the vehicle
Release the handbrake and begin reversing slowly
When your rear wheel reaches the corner point, start turning left
Look through the rear window and check your left mirror frequently

3 Completing the Manoeuvre

Continue reversing around the corner, keeping about half a metre from the kerb
Use small steering adjustments to maintain position
Stop when you're fully around the corner and parallel to the kerb
Apply the handbrake and select neutral (manual) or park (automatic)

Reversing Around a Right-Hand Corner

1 Initial Approach and Positioning

Find a quiet right-hand turn with good visibility
Position your vehicle about 1 metre from the kerb before the corner
Apply the handbrake and select neutral (manual) or park (automatic)
Check all mirrors and blind spots thoroughly

2 Beginning the Reverse

Select reverse gear and check all around again
Release the handbrake and begin reversing slowly
When your rear wheel reaches the corner point, start turning right
Look over your right shoulder and check your right mirror frequently

3 Completing the Manoeuvre

Continue reversing around the corner, keeping about 1 metre from the kerb
Use small steering adjustments to maintain position
Stop when you're fully around the corner and parallel to the kerb
Apply the handbrake and select neutral (manual) or park (automatic)

Essential Reversing Tips

✅ Observation is key - constantly check all around your vehicle
✅ Go slowly - use clutch control (manual) or gentle brake pressure (automatic)
✅ Use reference points on your vehicle to judge distance from the kerb
✅ Practice in daylight in quiet areas before attempting busier roads
✅ Don't rush - it's better to take your time than hit the kerb

Common Faults to Avoid

❌ Inadequate observation - failing to check blind spots
❌ Poor positioning - being too far from or too close to the kerb
❌ Rushing - moving too quickly and losing control
❌ Over-steering - making large corrections instead of small adjustments
❌ Choosing unsuitable locations - attempting on busy or narrow roads

Book a Driving Lesson

Contact our DVSA-approved instructors for professional reversing manoeuvre training.