To turn right, use the same MSPSL routine: check mirrors, signal right, position just left of the middle of the road, slow down, then look for a safe gap in oncoming traffic before you turn. Right turns take more thought than left turns because you cross the path of oncoming vehicles.
Lesson Journey: this guide is part of our lesson-by-lesson series for learner drivers.
- Lesson 1: The cockpit drill (DSSSM)
- Lesson 2: Moving off and stopping
- Lesson 3: Turning left (MSPSL)
- Lesson 4: Turning right (MSPSL) (you are here)
- Coming next: roundabouts and more
MSPSL for a Right Turn
- Mirrors: check your interior mirror, then your right door mirror, well before the junction.
- Signal: signal right in good time.
- Position: move to just left of the middle of the road, or into the right-turn lane if there is one. This lets traffic pass on your left.
- Speed: slow down and choose a low gear. Be ready to stop if oncoming traffic means you can’t turn yet.
- Look: look ahead for oncoming traffic, and into the road you’re turning into for pedestrians and hazards. Do a final check of your right mirror before turning.
Waiting for a Safe Gap
If you can’t turn straight away, stop at the turning point with your wheels straight. If you’re hit from behind with your wheels turned, you could be pushed into oncoming traffic.
Only turn when there’s a safe gap between you and any oncoming vehicle. Watch especially for motorcyclists and cyclists, who are smaller and harder to judge, and for vehicles hidden behind a large one.
Making the Turn
- Turn so you enter the new road on the left side. Don’t cut the corner across the right-hand side of the new road.
- Give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross the road you’re turning into (Highway Code rule H2).
- Once in the new road, straighten up, check your mirrors and build up speed.
Common Mistakes
- Positioning too far left, so traffic behind can’t pass.
- Turning the wheel while waiting.
- Rushing into a gap that is too small, or hesitating when it is clearly safe.
- Cutting the corner into the new road.
Why it matters on test day: incorrect positioning when turning right at junctions is the 4th most common reason people fail, after observation at junctions, mirrors and moving off. See all top 10 reasons people fail.
Coming next in the series: roundabouts and more. For now, read our roundabouts guide or go back to the Lesson Journey.
Learn It Properly With Astra
Our DVSA-approved instructors build up right turns step by step, from quiet roads to busy Manchester junctions. Manual and automatic lessons across Greater Manchester, from £35 an hour, 7 days a week from 7am to 11:30pm.
Fill in the form and we’ll match you with an instructor near you, or call 07758 837589.
Sources
The Highway Code, GOV.UK. Checked 12 November 2026. Routines like DSSSM and MSPSL are how instructors teach the Highway Code; your instructor may use a slightly different version.
FAQs: Turning Right at a Junction
Where should I position the car to turn right?
Just left of the middle of the road, or in the right-turn lane if there is one, so traffic can pass on your left.
Should I keep my wheels straight when waiting to turn right?
Yes. If you are hit from behind with your wheels turned, you could be pushed into oncoming traffic.
Who has priority when I turn right?
Oncoming traffic going straight on or turning left. Wait for a safe gap, and give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross the road you are turning into.
Why are motorcycles a particular risk when turning right?
They are smaller and their speed is harder to judge, so look carefully and take a second look before you turn.
