How to Complete a 3-Point Turn

3- Point Turn (Y-Turn)

Successfully completing a 3-point turn (three point turn) is a common requirement for most driver’s license examinations. Similar to parallel parking, the three point turn is often an area of concern for individuals who are preparing to obtain their license. While most drivers only occasionally use this strategy when it is absolutely necessary, the ability to complete a three point turn is a useful skill for every driver to have. 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.

​This is used in the Wisconsin driving exam as a test of skill and judgement. It is not recommended for use in general driving, but may be used in residential areas on streets too narrow for a U-turn.

​How to make a Y-turn

1. Check for traffic in your mirrors and blind spot. Signal right. Pull as far right as possible and stop.

​2. Check traffic in mirrors and blind spot. When the way is clear, signal left. Make a left-angle turn to the opposite curb or side of the road.

3. Check traffic to left and right. Turn front wheels as far right as possible. Looking behind the vehicle, back far enough so the vehicle clears the curb when you pull forward.

4. Check traffic to left and right and proceed when the way is clear.
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If you are hesitant about performing a three 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 practices, 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 three point turn.

Remember if you need a driving school in the Milwaukee, Racine, Oak Creek,  or South Milwaukee area visit one of our driving school websites and enroll in a program today! All programs cover the y-turn, parallel park, and lane changes. We operate driving schools for teens and adults.
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