Licence categories
Category B practical test: how do I make a safe U-turn?
Choose a legal, visible place, check approaching traffic, and do not force a turn without enough room.
In the Italian category B practical test, make a U-turn only where it is permitted and visibility and space are sufficient. Check traffic in both directions, mirrors and blind spots, signal when necessary and give way to other road users. If the location is unsafe or prohibited, do not start: ask the examiner to repeat the direction if needed.
Find a legal and suitable place
An instruction to turn around does not cancel road restrictions. Do not do it near a bend, crest or intersection, or where signs or visibility make it prohibited or dangerous. Look for a section with enough room and a clear view, where you can finish without making others brake or swerve suddenly.
Before moving, check ahead and behind, mirrors and blind spots. Look for pedestrians, cyclists, driveways and vehicles emerging from side roads. If reversing is needed, move at the lowest practical speed because visibility is reduced. An indicator communicates an intention but does not give you priority: wait for a suitable gap and do not force approaching traffic to yield.
Example: the examiner asks you to turn around just beyond a bend. Do not begin merely because the direction was given. Look for a place farther ahead with enough visibility and space, or ask for clarification. Maintaining control matters more than attempting a turn in a blind spot.
Complete the manoeuvre with repeated checks
Plan the forward and reverse movements for the available space and signs. Before each movement, check that the area is clear; stop if someone enters it. Do not assume the road is still clear because it was clear a few seconds ago. At the end, join the correct lane without cutting across approaching traffic and cancel the signal once the manoeuvre is complete.
Practise choosing legal locations and using the mirrors in the exam car with your instructor. The actual route and instructions depend on the test organisation. Quiz Patente Ufficiale helps you review quizzes and traffic rules, but it cannot replace practical training in turning a car around.
Quiz Patente Ufficiale helps you review signs and priority rules with quizzes and error review; practise the manoeuvre with an instructor.
Frequently asked questions
If the examiner asks for a U-turn, must I do it immediately?
No. First check that the location is legal and safe. If the instruction is unclear, ask for clarification instead of guessing.
Can I turn around if I cannot see approaching traffic?
No. Wait for a place with adequate visibility and room; do not start if the manoeuvre could create danger or obstruction.