How to Do a 3-Point Turn (Step-by-Step Guide)

Where You Can and Cannot Turn Around

1. Never turn across yellow lines

   • Do not make U-turns or three-point turns across solid or double yellow lines.
   • Yellow indicates caution and signals that crossing is unsafe.
2. Choose the right type of road

   • Safe to turn around only on roads without yellow or solid white center lines.
   • Ideal places: dead ends, cul-de-sacs, quiet residential roads.
   • Avoid busy roads or areas with fast-moving traffic.

Practicing a U-Turn

1. Identify a dead-end or no-outlet road

   • Signs like Ct., Cir., End, or No Outlet indicate a good place to turn around.
   • Roads often widen at the base, giving you space to maneuver.
2. Set up your position

   • Make a right turn into the dead end.
   • Pull as far right as possible — this is the most important step for an easy U-turn.
3. Execute the U-turn

   • Turn your wheel fully left (“full lock”).
   • Move forward slowly and let the car follow the curve.
   • Straighten the wheel (“unwrap”) once the turn is complete.
   • Drive forward out of the turn.

Performing a Three-Point Turn

1. Signal and pull over

   • Turn on your right signal to indicate you’re pulling to the side.
   • Come to a complete stop at the right edge of the road.
2. Signal left and check traffic

   • Turn on your left indicator.
   • Check mirrors, blind spots, and traffic from both directions.
   • Proceed only when the road is completely clear.
3. Point 1 — Drive forward and turn left

   • Turn the wheel fully left.
   • Move forward and cross toward the opposite side of the road.
   • before hitting the curb or edge.
4. Point 2 — Reverse

   • Shift to reverse.
   • Turn the wheel fully right and back up slowly.
   • Back up just enough to clear your front end — not too far.
5. Point 3 — Drive forward to straighten out

   • Shift back to drive.
   • Turn the wheel left again.
   • Pull forward and straighten the vehicle.
   • You’ve completed the turn.

Repeating and Practicing Safely

1. Repeat U-turns and three-point turns

   • Practice them again in the same safe locations (dead ends, quiet streets).
   • Ensure there are no yellow lines and traffic is light.
2. Use turns only when safe

   • Examples: blocked roads, fallen tree, power line, unexpected obstruction.
   • Always prioritize safety and awareness of surroundings.