Pull Up on the Right
How to safely pull up on the right-hand side of the road, reverse for two car lengths, and rejoin traffic. Added to the driving test in December 2017.
6
Steps
Medium
Difficulty
High
Test Chance
2017
Added to Test
Key safety point:The most critical moment is rejoining traffic. You'll be crossing the oncoming lane. always check thoroughly and wait until completely clear before moving off.
Watch: Pull Up on the Right
See exactly how this manoeuvre is done, with expert commentary.
Step-by-Step Guide
Listen to the Instruction
The examiner will say: "I'd like you to pull up on the right-hand side of the road when it's safe to do so." Choose a safe, legal place. not near a junction, bend, or school.
Check and Cross
Check your interior mirror, right mirror, and right blind spot. When safe, signal right and move to the right side of the road. Pull up close to the right-hand kerb.
Secure the Car
Once stopped by the kerb, apply the handbrake and select neutral. The examiner will then ask you to reverse for about two car lengths.
Prepare to Reverse
Select reverse gear. Check all mirrors. especially the right mirror and right blind spot for oncoming traffic, and the left mirror for vehicles passing on your side.
Reverse Two Car Lengths
Reverse slowly for about two car lengths (approximately 10 metres). Keep close to the kerb, maintain good all-round observation. Keep the car straight.
Rejoin Traffic
The examiner will tell you to rejoin the traffic when you're ready. Check all mirrors and blind spots. especially for oncoming traffic from behind. Signal right, move to the left side of the road when completely safe.
Observation Checklist
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
Not checking for oncoming traffic before crossing
Always check your right mirror, right blind spot, and look well ahead before crossing to the right. Oncoming traffic has priority.
Drifting away from the kerb while reversing
Keep glancing at your right mirror to maintain a consistent distance from the kerb. Make small steering corrections.
Reversing too far or not far enough
The examiner says "about two car lengths". this is roughly 10 metres. Don't overthink the exact distance, just aim for approximately right.
Rushing to rejoin traffic
This is where most faults happen. You're crossing into the path of oncoming traffic. check thoroughly and only move when you're certain it's safe.
Forgetting to look behind when reversing
Look through the rear window as your main view. Don't just rely on mirrors. turn and look.
Test Day Tips
Find a quiet straight road
Choose a spot on a straight road with good visibility in both directions. Avoid curves, junctions, and driveways.
Keep it straight when reversing
The main skill here is reversing in a straight line. Use your right mirror to track the kerb and make micro-adjustments.
Observation is everything
This manoeuvre involves being on the "wrong" side of the road. The examiner will be watching your observations very carefully.
Don't overthink the distance
"About two car lengths" is approximate. Focus on control and observation rather than counting metres precisely.
Pull Up on the Right FAQs
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