Driving Schools Directory

Driving Tips - Road Positioning

All practical driving tips

Guidance reviewed: 25 September 2026. Use these prompts with professional instruction and the handbook for the vehicle you drive.

Accelerator Anticipation Approaching Junctions Brake Clearance Clutch Crossing Other Traffic Crossroads Emergency Stop Exterior Mirrors Gear Lever Gears General Handbrake Head Restraint Indicators Interior Mirror Making Progress Meeting Approaching Traffic Mirrors Moving Away Moving Off Overtaking Pedestrian Crossings Reverse Parking Reversing Road Positioning Safe Distance Safety Routine Seat Seat Belts Signals Steering Steering Wheel Stopping T-Junctions The Engine Turning the Car Around

Practical Driving Test Tips — Road Positioning

ProblemReasonSolution
You cut across cyclists when turningTheir path alongside the vehicle has not been protected.Check mirrors and blind spots and give way to cyclists going ahead when changing direction or lane. Do not turn across them.
You drive too close to the kerb or centre lineYour view is fixed on a nearby reference rather than the road ahead.Look well ahead and use peripheral information to maintain a safe position, adjusting for bends, parked vehicles and road width.
Your position hides your view at a junctionThe car stopped too far back, too far forward or at an unsuitable angle.Choose a safe position that follows markings and improves the view without entering another road user's path.

Official guidance