What is a Three-Point Turn (Also Known as a K-Turn)?
The three-point turn, commonly referred to as a K-turn or Y-turn, is a technique used to turn a vehicle around in a small space by moving forward, then reversing, and then moving forward again. This type of turn is often necessary when the road is too narrow for a U-turn.
Successfully completing a 3 point turn is a crucial skill for passing most driver’s license examinations. While it might not be a maneuver you use daily, knowing how to do a three-point turn is essential for every driver -- just like parallel parking. When you practice doing a 3-point-turn for the first time, make sure you are on a street with very little traffic so that you can take your time. Also, it is a good idea to find a location without any ditches, mailboxes, or other major obstacles on either side.
Use the following steps as a guide for your first attempt at doing a 3 point turn.
3 Point Turn Steps for a Successful Maneuver
- 1
Move to the outer part of the lane
As you near the area in which you plan to practice a three point turn for the first time, move to the outer part of the lane. This will create more room in which you can maneuver your vehicle.
- 2
Check your rear view mirror
Before stopping, check your rear view mirror for traffic. Do not attempt a three point turn on a busy roadway. In fact, three point turns should only be used in emergency situations. It is safer and easier to find a driveway or parking lot in which to turn around.
- 3
Check for other cars behind or in front of you
Stop your vehicle. Again, check for any other cars either behind or in front of you. Performing a three point turn will take several seconds. If at all possible, you do not want to obstruct the roadway for other drivers, especially if you are only performing a three point turn for practice and not out of necessity.
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POINT 1: ← Turn your steering wheel all the way to the left, approach the edge of the opposing lane
After stopping and ensuring there are no other vehicles approaching in either direction, turn your steering wheel all the way to the left and accelerate your vehicle until it nears the edge of the opposing lane. This is the first point.
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POINT 2: ↓ Shift into reverse, → turn your steering wheel to the right and back up towards the side of the road you originally started in
Quickly check again for traffic. Shift your vehicle into reverse. Using your rear view and side mirrors, slowly turn your steering wheel to the right and begin to back your vehicle towards the edge of the side of the road you originally started in. This is the second point.
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POINT 3: ↑ Shift back into forward and steer left to begin driving in the lane opposite of the one you started in
Check for approaching vehicles once more. Shift your car back into forward and steer left so that you begin driving in the lane opposite of the one you started in. This is the third point and the conclusion of the three point turn driving maneuver.
Remember, the three point turn driving strategy should only be used if there are no other options available.
No Matter What You Call it
In some regions, the 3 point turn is known as a K turn. No matter what you call it, the steps remain the same. Practice makes perfect, so find a quiet street to rehearse this maneuver.
By practicing these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to execute a flawless 3 point, K, or Y turn, crucial for passing your driving test and for safe driving in general. If you are hesitant about performing a 3 point turn because of the amount of traffic on a roadway, continue driving until you find a safer means of changing the direction of your vehicle. After a few practice runs, you should feel confident in your ability to successfully complete a three point turn and have no problem demonstrating the skill during your driver’s license examination. If you ever need to turn your vehicle around in a tight spot during an emergency situation, you will know that you can do so quickly and efficiently using a 3 point turn.
