Lesson 6.2 | Module 6: Manoeuvres
Reversing Fundamentals
Reverse slowly, look properly, and stop whenever you need to think or correct.
Written Practice Guide
Written practice guide
This lesson is currently taught as a written guide. Read it before your next driving lesson, then use the practice task, instructor question, and self-check below to make the in-car lesson more useful.
Visual Guide
What This Helps With
Every manoeuvre uses the same basics: crawl speed, all-round observation, and calm correction.
The Simple Version
Reverse at walking pace or slower. Turn your body and look behind you, because that is where the car is moving. Stop if anyone or anything comes near.
Do Not Stare Through The Central Mirror
- The central mirror is mainly for normal forward driving.
- When reversing, the safest view usually comes from turning your body and looking out of the rear window and side windows.
- Mirrors are still useful for lines, kerb distance, and positioning, but they should not replace looking behind you.
- If you are unsure, stop first, look properly, then continue or correct slowly.
Common Mistakes
- Reversing too fast.
- Staring through the central mirror instead of turning to look behind.
- Using mirrors only and missing people or objects outside the mirror view.
- Turning the wheel without knowing where the car is going.
- Not stopping when unsure.
What Examiners Care About
They want control and observation. The priority is not hitting anyone or anything. You can pause as much as you need, and you should stop if your view is blocked or if you need time to check properly.
Practise On Your Next Lesson
Ask to reverse slowly in a straight line and stop every time a hazard appears.
Ask Your Instructor
"Am I turning enough to look behind, or am I relying on the mirrors too much?"
Quick Self-Check
- Was I slow?
- Did I look around?
- Did I stop when unsure?