The "pull up on the right-hand side of the road, reverse two car lengths, then rejoin traffic" manoeuvre was introduced in 2017 and remains one of the most misunderstood test manoeuvres. Here is where Forest Hill examiners typically request it and how to handle it confidently.
Understanding the Manoeuvre
The examiner will ask you to pull up on the right-hand side of the road in a safe position. You will then reverse approximately two car lengths while keeping reasonably close to the kerb. Finally, you will rejoin traffic by moving off and returning to the left side of the road when safe.
This manoeuvre tests your ability to control the car at slow speed, maintain accurate positioning, and demonstrate thorough observation before moving off into oncoming traffic.
1. Manor Lane, Hither Green
A wide residential street that is one of the most common locations for this manoeuvre on Hither Green test routes.
What to expect:
- Wide road with good visibility in both directions
- Parked cars on the left side leaving the right side relatively clear
- Speed bumps that slow other traffic, giving you more time
- Residential driveways you must avoid blocking
Our tip: Choose a spot between driveways, not across them. Signal right, check your mirrors plus right blind spot, then cross to the right side smoothly. Position about 30cm from the right kerb, just as you would on the left.
2. Crofton Park Road Side Streets
Several quiet streets off Crofton Park Road are used on Lewisham test routes. Streets like Doggett Road and Manwood Road are popular choices.
What to expect:
- Very quiet residential streets with minimal through traffic
- Cars parked predominantly on one side
- Good street lighting and clear kerb edges
- Flat terrain making slow-speed control easier
Our tip: On these quiet streets, the main challenge is maintaining a straight reverse. Pick a point in your left mirror, such as the kerb line, and keep it consistent as you reverse. Check all around every few seconds.
3. Verdant Lane Area, Catford
The residential streets around Verdant Lane offer wide, quiet roads that examiners favour for this manoeuvre.
What to expect:
- Mix of parked and clear sections on the right side
- Occasional pedestrians walking dogs or with pushchairs
- Good visibility for checking oncoming traffic before moving off
- Gentle camber that can pull the car slightly towards the kerb
Our tip: When reversing, the camber works in your favour on the right side, gently guiding you towards the kerb. Use very light steering corrections and keep your speed to a crawl using clutch control.
4. Ladywell Village Streets
On Lewisham routes heading towards Ladywell, the residential streets near Ladywell Fields are occasionally used.
What to expect:
- Wider than average residential streets
- Park visitors creating occasional pedestrian traffic
- Clear sight lines in both directions
- Well-maintained road surface
Our tip: The wider road here gives you extra confidence. However, watch for cyclists who may appear quickly from the park area. Always check your mirrors before and during the reverse.
5. Hither Green Lane Residential Streets
Streets branching off Hither Green Lane, such as Fernbrook Road and Leahurst Road, are used when the test route passes through this area.
What to expect:
- Typical South London residential streets with terraced houses
- Cars parked on both sides in places, but examiners choose clearer sections
- School traffic at certain times of day
- Good road markings and kerb definition
Our tip: If the examiner asks for this manoeuvre near school hours, be extra vigilant for children. Take your time with observations and do not rush the reverse. Safety always comes first.
Step-by-Step Technique
- Signal right and check mirrors plus right blind spot
- Cross to the right side when safe, positioning 30cm from the kerb
- Apply handbrake and select reverse gear
- Check all around thoroughly, including both blind spots
- Reverse slowly for approximately two car lengths, checking mirrors constantly
- Stop and apply handbrake when complete
- Select first gear, check mirrors and left blind spot
- Signal left and move off when safe, returning to the left side
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting observations: You must check all around before every phase of the manoeuvre
- Reversing too far from the kerb: Stay within 30cm, just like normal parking
- Rushing the move-off: You are crossing into oncoming traffic, so take extra care
- Not checking the left blind spot: Before moving off, check left for cyclists or pedestrians
- Blocking driveways: Always check you are not stopping across a driveway
Build Confidence with Practice
At Forest Hill Driving School, we practise this manoeuvre on the exact streets examiners use. Our instructors will help you develop reliable reference points and build the observation habits that examiners want to see. Book a lesson focused on manoeuvre practice today.