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Manoeuvres

Three-Point Turn (K-Turn) for the US Road Test

How to perform a three-point turn (K-turn) safely on the US road test — observation, control, and recovery.

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In short

Pull to the right curb, full left lock, drive across the road until you near the opposite curb, full right lock and reverse, then drive forward in your new direction. Observation before each move is what the examiner scores.

Updated 2026-06-06 · 6 min read · By Driving Routes Editorial

The sequence

Stop close to the right curb. Full mirror check + signal left. Drive forward with full left lock until your front is near the opposite curb. Stop. Mirror check + signal right. Reverse with full right lock. Stop near the right curb. Mirror check + signal left. Drive forward in your new direction.

Observation

Examiners score observation at each move. Mirror, shoulder, and over-the-shoulder are expected before every direction change. Skipping the over-the-shoulder check is the most common fault.

What if I touch the curb?

A single curb touch is usually a control fault, not a fail. Hitting the curb hard or rolling over it is more serious. Recovery (straighten, observe, continue) shows control.

Frequently asked questions

Is a three-point turn the same as a K-turn?
Yes — three-point turn and K-turn are the same manoeuvre. The shape your car traces resembles a K.
Which states test the three-point turn?
Most US states include it on the road test, particularly NY, NJ, MA, and PA. Some western states phase it out in favor of parallel parking.