Reversing in the theory test: when may you reverse from a side road?
Updated •4 min read
Do not reverse from a side road into a main road. That is rule 201 of the Highway Code, which adds that when using a driveway you should reverse in and drive out if you can.
This page covers the four reversing rules (200 to 203), what to check before and while you reverse, and how the rules link to pedestrians and motorways. Every rule is from the Highway Code on gov.uk and the rule numbers are given so you can check them.
The four reversing rules
| Rule | What it says |
|---|---|
| 200 | Choose an appropriate place to manoeuvre. Wait for a safe place if you need to turn round. |
| 201 | Do not reverse from a side road into a main road. When using a driveway, reverse in and drive out if you can. |
| 202 | Look carefully before you start reversing, and check all round while you do. |
| 203 | You must not reverse your vehicle further than necessary. |
Where to turn round (rule 200)
Rule 200 says to try not to reverse or turn round in a busy road. Find a quiet side road or drive round a block of side streets instead.
Rule 201 is the one this question is about: do not reverse from a side road into a main road.
Looking before you reverse (rule 202)
Rule 202 says to look carefully before you start. You should:
- use all your mirrors
- check the blind spot behind you, the part of the road you cannot see easily in the mirrors
- check there are no pedestrians (particularly children), cyclists, other road users or obstructions in the road behind you
While reversing, rule 202 says to:
- reverse slowly, checking all around
- look mainly through the rear window
- be aware that the front of your vehicle will swing out as you turn
- get someone to guide you if you cannot see clearly
How far may you reverse? (rule 203)
Rule 203 says you must not reverse your vehicle further than necessary. It is a legal requirement, not just advice, and the rule cites regulation 106 of the Construction and Use Regulations as the law.
Pedestrians when reversing into a side road (rule 206)
Rule 206 lists reversing into a side road as a time to drive carefully and slowly. It says to look all around the vehicle and give way to any pedestrians who may be crossing the road (rules 204 to 225). Our pedestrian crossings guide covers crossing priority.
Reversing on a motorway
Never reverse on a motorway. Rule 263 says that, unless a police or traffic officer directs you to, you must not reverse along any part of a motorway, including slip roads, hard shoulders and emergency areas (motorway rules). If you miss your exit, our learner drivers and motorways guide explains what to do instead.
Practise before the test
The free practice questions let you try these rules in question form. If you are booking your test, the test centres page lists centres by city.
Check what you remember
Try the free theorytest.ai diagnostic to see whether reversing is a weak area. theorytest.ai is independent and is not affiliated with the DVSA. Gov.uk does not publish test questions, so we cannot say how many are about reversing.
Frequently asked questions
When may you reverse from a side road?
You should not reverse from a side road into a main road (rule 201). Find a quiet side road or drive round a block of side streets to turn round (rule 200).
Why is it dangerous to reverse from a side road into a main road?
The Highway Code does not state a reason in rule 201. It simply says not to do it.
How far are you allowed to reverse?
No further than necessary (rule 203). This is a legal requirement.
What should you check before reversing?
Use all your mirrors and check the blind spot. Check for pedestrians, particularly children, cyclists, other road users and obstructions behind you (rule 202).
Can you reverse on a motorway?
No. Rule 263 says you must not reverse along any part of a motorway, including slip roads, hard shoulders and emergency areas, unless a police or traffic officer directs you to.
How should you reverse into a driveway?
Rule 201 says that when using a driveway, you should reverse in and drive out if you can.