How to Do a Three-Point Turn

Written by Mary Salatino | Edited by Michael Purser

You’re driving down a narrow street and realize you’ve gone the wrong way. No space to turn around, no driveway to pull into — just you, the car and not enough room.

In a situation like this, it pays to know how to conduct a three-point turn. It’s not the smoothest move, and yes, it might feel clunky the first few times, but sometimes it’s the only option.

Don’t know where to start? You’re not alone. We’ve all been there, wondering if we’re about to hit the curb or stall out mid-turn. The good news is that it’s easier than it looks once you learn the basics.

What Is a Three-Point Turn?

This driving maneuver is used to turn your vehicle 180 degrees around. It’s typically used when the road is too narrow for a U-turn. Instead of making one continuous arc, you use a series of three movements, or “points,” to alter direction.

Here’s where the name comes from:

First point: You steer sharply left and move forward across the road.
Second point: You shift into reverse, steer right and back up.
Third point: You shift into drive again and move forward in the opposing direction.

These three steps make up the basic structure of the turn. Although, in real life, you might need a little more room or an extra adjustment (or two), especially when you’re learning.

The three-point turn is sometimes called a K-turn, Y-turn or broken U-turn, depending on your state or driving school. In the end, they all describe the same thing: turning around safely and efficiently when space is tight.

When It’s Safe to Do a Three-Point Turn

A three-point maneuver can be extremely useful, but only if it’s completely safe to do so. Executing this maneuver requires ample time and space. Before touching the steering wheel, thoroughly scan your surrounding area. You’ll need a complete view of the road in both directions and enough space to complete the turn without rushing.

Don’t try this in high-traffic areas or on busy roads. Look for a quiet stretch of road with little to no traffic and ensure there are no cars coming toward you from either direction. You’ll also want to steer clear of hills, curves or any spot where visibility is limited.

It’s also a good idea to check for signs that might prohibit turning around. Some residential areas or intersections may have signs that say, “No U-Turn” or “No Turning,” and that usually applies to three-point turns, too.

In short, play it safe. If it feels rushed or risky, it’s likely not the correct time or place. Find a better spot or keep driving until you can safely turn around.

Step-by-Step Instructions

It might feel tricky at first, but once you break it down into manageable steps, it becomes much easier to handle. Here are the steps to perform a three-point turn:

Pull over and signal — Start by pulling over as close as possible to the right side of the road. Activate your left turn blinker to signal to other drivers what you're about to do.
Turn left and move forward — Check carefully for oncoming traffic and pedestrians. When it’s clear, crank your
steering wheel all the way to the left and slowly drive forward across the road toward the opposite curb. Stop before you hit the curb or the edge of the road.
Reverse while rotating right — Shift into reverse and spin your steering wheel all the way to the right. Look over your shoulder and check your mirrors as you back up slowly, aiming to position your car at an angle that will enable you to move forward in the new direction.
Drive forward in the new direction — Shift back into drive, straighten your steering wheel and carefully move forward to complete the process. Make sure to check traffic both ways before you move forward.

Safety Tips

Safety should always be your top priority, especially when attempting a complex maneuver. Here are some important tips to keep in mind when turning:

Check Everything Before You Move

Always look left, right and behind you before each step. Stay alert for oncoming cars, bikes, or pedestrians.

Remember to Signal

Even if the road is empty, signaling lets other drivers know what you plan to do. It’s a simple way to avoid confusion and accidents.

Watch for Pedestrians and Cyclists

They can be harder to spot, especially if they’re coming quickly or around corners. Be extra careful to scan for them.

Keep Your Speed Slow and Steady

There’s no need to rush. Moving slowly gives you more control and more time to effectively react if something unexpected happens. Plus, you don’t want to risk getting a speeding ticket.

Use Hazard Lights if Needed

If you’re stuck waiting for a gap in traffic, switching on your hazard lights can alert other drivers that you’re stopped or moving slowly. Remember that using your hazards will override your other signals, making it hard for other drivers to anticipate sudden movements.

Avoid Distractions

Silence the radio or anything else that might distract you from driving. Focus fully on the maneuver to stay safe.

How to Practice

Mastering this move takes patience and practice. The first few times might feel awkward — and that’s totally normal. If you're just starting out, find a quiet, low-traffic area like an empty parking lot or a wide residential street. Practicing in a calm environment gives you the space and time to fully focus on the steps without pressure from passing cars.

It also helps to have someone experienced in the car with you, like a parent or driving instructor, who can talk you through each part of the maneuver. Don’t worry if it takes you more than three moves at first — what matters most is that you're doing it right and with control.

Try practicing at different times of day and in various weather conditions once you're more confident. The more variety you experience while practicing, the better prepared you’ll be during a real-world driving test — or just out on the road.

And one last tip: if you ever feel unsure mid-turn, stop. Take a breath, check your surroundings and reset if needed.

What to Do if You Get Stuck Mid-Turn

If a car approaches while you're mid-turn, stop where you are. Keep your foot on the brake, stay alert and wait for the vehicle to pass. Do not try to speed up or complete the turn quickly. It’s safer to pause and let traffic clear before continuing.

If you’ve moved the wheel too sharply and get too close to the curb, stop immediately. Shift into reverse or drive, depending on your position, and gently correct your angle. Take your time. A slow adjustment is better than hitting the curb or overcorrecting.

If the space is tight and it’s taking more than three moves to complete the maneuver, that’s completely fine. Use as many points as needed to safely position your vehicle. What matters most is that you remain in control, signal when necessary and keep checking for other vehicles or pedestrians as you reposition.

Still Learning? Driver’s Ed Can Help

If you’re still getting comfortable behind the wheel, SafeMotorist’s online driver’s ed course is a great way to boost your confidence. You’ll learn the rules of the road, essential driving skills like the three-point maneuver and how to handle real-world situations safely — all at your own pace, from home.

Whether you're preparing for your license test or just want a solid foundation before hitting the road solo, our course is designed to help you drive smarter and safer.

Start your driver’s ed with SafeMotorist today and take the next step toward becoming a confident, prepared driver.