What Are the RMS Driving Test Maneuvers?
After passing the Hazard Perception Test, the next step towards obtaining your NSW driver licence is the Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) driving test. This practical driving test is designed to assess your control of the vehicle, decision-making abilities, awareness of other road users, and overall safety on the road. With increasing road safety concerns, the RMS driving test has become more challenging. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare effectively and improve your chances of passing.
What is the RMS Driving Test?
The RMS driving test is an on-road examination conducted by a testing officer from Service NSW. It follows the completion of the Driver Knowledge Test (DKT) and requires you to demonstrate essential driving skills in real traffic conditions. The test assesses your ability to follow road rules, perform manoeuvres safely, and share the road with other road users. To take the test, you must have completed your learner licence requirements, including the necessary 120 log book hours.
On test day, you will visit a Service Centre where the practical driving test will be conducted. The testing officer will observe how you handle different situations, including emergency stops, parallel parking, and general observation checks. Success in the test will grant you your provisional licence, bringing you one step closer to becoming a fully licensed driver.
What Manoeuvres Are Required on a Driving Exam?
To pass the RMS driving test, you must successfully complete several key manoeuvres. Each manoeuvre is designed to test specific driving skills that are critical for safe driving. Here are some of the most common manoeuvres required on the practical driving test:
- Kerbside Stop (Hill Start)
The kerbside stop, also known as a hill start, tests your ability to position your car safely and legally by the kerb. The testing officer will ask you to pull over to the side of the road, ensuring you avoid prohibited areas such as bus stops or driveways. You need to indicate your intention to stop, check your blind spots, and stop parallel to the kerb without mounting it. Engaging the handbrake after stopping is also essential. Common mistakes include failing to indicate or forgetting to check your blind spots. - Three-Point Turn
The three-point turn manoeuvre assesses your ability to make a turn in a confined space. Once instructed by the testing officer, you will need to signal your intention and perform the turn while ensuring you don’t hit the kerb or reverse too far. Observation checks are critical during this manoeuvre, and the testing officer will watch closely for any mistakes in clutch, brake, or gear coordination. - Reverse Parallel Parking
Reverse parallel parking is often considered one of the most challenging manoeuvres for learners. You will need to park your car beside another vehicle, ensuring that the distance between the cars is no more than one metre. Proper observation checks, maintaining the correct car lengths, and avoiding mounting the kerb are crucial to passing this part of the test. Failing to execute this manoeuvre correctly can result in failing the test. - Emergency Stop
During the practical driving test, the testing officer may ask you to perform an emergency stop to simulate a sudden braking situation. This manoeuvre tests your reaction time and your ability to carry out an emergency stop safely without losing control of the vehicle.
Book Driving Lessons with LTrent
The RMS driving test is a significant step in obtaining your driver licence, and being familiar with the required manoeuvres can help you feel more confident on test day. Whether it’s mastering the kerbside stop, perfecting your three-point turn, or nailing reverse parallel parking, each manoeuvre is designed to ensure you are a safe and capable driver. Prepare thoroughly, take driving lessons, and be mindful of road rules to give yourself the best chance of passing your driving test.
At LTrent Driving School, our experienced driving instructors are here to guide you through the process. From practical driving test preparation to valuable feedback on your progress, we’re committed to helping you succeed. Start your journey towards a provisional licence with lessons from the most trusted driving school in NSW.
For learnrers under 25, LTrent facilitates the Safer Drivers Course so they can enhance their driving skills and knowledge, making them safer and more confident on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the manoeuvres in the RMS driving test in 2024?
In 2024, the RMS driving test includes essential manoeuvres such as kerbside stop (hill start), three-point turn, reverse parallel parking, and emergency stop. The test may also include additional observation checks to ensure you can safely interact with other road users.