When you are about to get your driving license in Copenhagen, it is crucial to master a number of maneuvers – and one of the most basic and important is the 3-point turn. Whether you take the test at Dekra Brøndby, Søborg, Amager Strandvej or other test locations in and around Copenhagen and Zealand, it is almost certain that you will be asked to perform this particular maneuver.
At Unique Drive Traffic School in Copenhagen, we make a point of ensuring that our students not only learn how to perform a 3-point turn – but also understand the technique and feel confident using it in everyday life. It’s not just about passing the driving test, but also about being able to navigate Copenhagen’s narrow streets, detours and roadworks.
What is a 3-point conversion?
A 3-point turn is a maneuver where you turn your car 180 degrees on a narrow road where there is no room to make a U-turn. It is called a “3-point turn” because it is usually performed in three movements:
- Forward to the left
- Backwards to the right
- Forward again to straighten the car
It requires precision, calmness and overview – especially during the driving test, where you are under pressure. That is why it is important to practice this maneuver repeatedly and know each step.
Why is the 3-point shot so important?
It is not just for the driving test that you need to learn the 3-point turn. In practice, you will encounter many situations where you will have to turn the car in a narrow space – for example on a one-way road with no turning point, in a blind alley, or in connection with road works. Copenhagen has many narrow streets and heavy traffic, which makes this maneuver particularly important.
In addition, a correctly executed 3-point turn shows that you as a driver have an overview, are properly oriented and can handle the car in tight conditions.
How to do a proper 3-point turn – Step by step
At Unique Drive Traffic School, we teach you how to master this maneuver step by step – and our instructors ensure that you can not only perform the turn, but also feel safe and calm along the way.
- Preparation and placement
- Pull the car in to the right, approximately 20-30 cm from the curb.
- Turn on your right turn signal to signal that you want to stop.
- Stop the car and make sure to do a thorough mirror-mirror-shoulder orientation.
- Check traffic both from the front and from behind and make sure it is safe to begin.
- First point: Drive forward and turn left
- Turn on the left turn signal
- Do orientation again: rearview mirror, left side mirror, and look over your left shoulder.
- Turn the steering wheel all the way to the left and drive slowly forward until you approach the opposite curb.
- Stop the car just before you hit the curb.
- Hold still and prepare to back up.
- Second point: Reverse and turn right
- Put the car in reverse and reorient yourself all the way around (mirror–mirror–shoulder).
- Turn the steering wheel all the way to the right while slowly backing the car back towards the original side.
- Stop the car about 30 cm before hitting the curb or sidewalk behind you.
- Third point: Drive forward and straighten up
- Do the orientation once again.
- Put the car in first gear and drive forward while straightening the steering wheel.
- Now you have turned 180 degrees and are ready to continue driving in the opposite direction.
With correct technique and patience, it will quickly become a natural part of your driving.
Mistakes to avoid during 3-point turns
Although a 3-point turn is a simple maneuver on paper, there are some classic mistakes that many students make during their driving test – and which can cost them a passing test:
- Lack of orientation (especially when reversing)
- The car hitting the curb
- Not giving way to oncoming cars
- Lack of signaling
- Too high speed during the maneuver
At Unique Drive, we ensure that you avoid these mistakes through repetition and individual feedback during lessons.
An important part of the practical driving test in Copenhagen
When you show up for the practical driving test in Copenhagen – whether it is at Dekra Brøndby, Søborg, Amager Strandvej or another test location – you will typically be asked to perform one or more of the following maneuvers:
- Parallel parking
- 3-point turn
- Backing around the corner
These maneuvers form a central part of your assessment as a driver. Our students at Unique Drive Traffic School are trained thoroughly in all three maneuvers, so they show up for the test with confidence and calm.
Learn the maneuver from home – With instructional videos
At Unique Drive Traffic School, we believe that learning happens best when you both see and do. That’s why we have produced a series of instructional videos where you can see the entire process behind a 3-point turn – filmed in real traffic situations in Copenhagen.
The videos are available on our social media and via our student portal atunique-drive.dkThis makes it easy for you to practice from home, both before and after driving lessons.
Transparent pricing and free introduction
We know that finances are important when choosing a driving school. That’s why we offer:
- Transparent prices
- Legal packages without hidden fees
- Discount packages for students
- Possibility of payment in installments
In addition, we invite you to our free and non-binding introduction, which is held every Wednesday at 5:00 PM and every Sunday at 1:00 PM. Here you can meet our driving instructors, ask questions and learn more about how we help you get your driver’s license quickly and safely.
Get your driving license in Copenhagen – with security and quality
At Unique Drive Driving School in Copenhagen, we do not compromise on quality. Our mission is to educate skilled, safe and responsible drivers – regardless of whether you get your driver’s license as an 18-year-old, an adult, or after a longer break from driving.
We have premises and driving lessons throughout Copenhagen, including:
- Frederiksberg
- Valby
- Amager
- Norrebro
- Osterbro
- Bronshoj
At Unique Drive, you will feel confident behind the wheel – and ready to pass your driving test on the first try.