Down the 5 Maneuvers on the WA Skills Test

What the Skills Test in Washington Covers

Washington’s driving test evaluates practical driving skills rather than just theoretical knowledge. The WA Skills Test maneuvers include:

  1. Backing around a corner
  2. Parallel parking
  3. Hill parking (uphill or downhill)
  4. Lane change
  5. Entering and exiting traffic safely

Examiners assess how well you perform each of these actions—including steering control, signaling, observation, and spatial awareness. Accurate execution of these maneuvers is essential to pass and drive safely on Washington roads. Visit Teen Driver Education

Maneuver 1: Backing Around a Corner

This maneuver demonstrates control, observation, and reverse steering:

  • Begin aligned with the driveway or curb.
    Maintain predominant vision out the back window, using glances in the side mirror to maintain position relative to the curb.
  • Make sure to stop completely before the sidewalk or edge of the road, especially if there is no sidewalk, to check for pedestrians and traffic.


  • Continue backing slowly with steady steering until you clear the corner.
  • Back in a straight line, staying within 11/2’ of the curb, until the examiner tells you to stop.

Common mistakes include not maintaining predominant vision out the back window, failing to stop to check for pedestrians, drifting toward the curb, oversteering, or failing to look in all directions. WMST instructors help students practice this in low-traffic settings before progressing.

Maneuver 2: Parallel Parking

This maneuver measures spatial awareness and precision:

  • The examiner will point out a vehicle for you to park behind, asking you to imagine that there is another vehicle parked 11/2 car lengths behind the vehicle in which you will park behind.
  • Signal and pull parallel to the vehicle, approximately 3-5’ apart.
  • Maintain the majority of your vision out the rear window when backing, using the passenger side mirror to monitor the other vehicle and curb.
  • Turn the wheel all the way to the right and reverse until your vehicle is at approximately a 45 degree angle to the car you are parking behind.
  • Straighten the wheel and back until your passenger side mirror lines up with the driver’s side rear corner of the vehicle you are parking behind.
  • Turn the wheel all the way to the left and continue backing into the spot until you are parallel and within one foot of the curb.
  • Center your vehicle between the car in front and the imaginary car behind.

Mistakes often involve not maintaining the majority of your vision out the back window, oversteering or improper angles. WMST teaches step-by-step breakdowns and multiple practice rounds for student success.

Maneuver 3: Hill Park (Uphill/Downhill Parking)

Washington requires students to demonstrate proper parking technique on a hill:

  • Come to a stop parallel and within one foot of the curb.
  • Uphill with a curb: turn wheel  left, away from the curb.
  • Uphill no curb or downhill: turn wheels right, toward the side of the road.
  • Put the car in park and set the parking brake, do not allow the car to roll.

Examiners look for car position relative to the curb, correct wheel placement, putting the car in park, setting the emergency brake and safe visual checks. WMST allows practice at various grades to ensure mastery.

Maneuver 4: Lane Change with Signal

This maneuver tests your ability to communicate intentions and maintain control:

  • Check mirrors, signal early, and glance over your shoulder.
  • Change lanes smoothly without cutting in too sharply or braking abruptly.

Common penalties include improper signaling, failing to check blind spots, or moving into traffic without enough space. WMST teaches situational awareness to avoid these issues.

Maneuver 5: Entering and Exiting Traffic Safely

This maneuver tests judgment and timing:

Exiting traffic

  • Use your turn signal
  • Adjust speed and safely exit traffic
  • Check your side mirror and your blind spot.

Entering traffic

  • Signal, check side mirror and blindspot.
  • Judge gaps in oncoming lanes—including vehicles and pedestrians
  • Safely merge into traffic

Instructors teach precise timing and observation techniques to avoid errors under pressure.

How WMST Prepares Students for These Maneuvers?

WMST delivers a structured, hands-on approach to master all five Skills Test maneuvers:

  • Six full hours of behind-the-wheel training, focused on real execution—not simulations.
  • Multi-session practice on each maneuver in controlled environments, modeled after actual test conditions.
  • Immediate feedback during training sessions to refine technique and correct habits.
  • Opportunity to use a DOL-approved vehicle—familiar and reliable—for the Skills Test.
  • Mock-tests facilitate confidence and readiness by simulating exam scenarios.

Completing these with instructor guidance ensures competence and calm on test day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the required maneuvers for the WA Skills Test?
They include backing around a corner, parallel parking, hill parking, lane changes, and safely entering/exiting traffic.

Do I need to master all 5 maneuvers to pass the test?
No, while you do have to attempt to complete all 5 maneuvers, you do not have to be perfect.   It is possible to completely bomb a single maneuver and still pass the skills test.  However, having proficiency at all maneuvers will set you up for success.

How does WMST prepare students for these maneuvers?
WMST builds competency through six structured in-car lessons, repetition of each maneuver, and detailed feedback.

Can I practice the test maneuvers with an instructor?
Absolutely. Each driving lesson includes focused practice on one or more test maneuvers until students feel confident.

Are the test routes the same for everyone?
No. While the specific route varies, the required maneuvers remain consistent. Instructors teach students how to identify safe practice areas and apply skills regardless of location.

Conclusion: Mastering the WA Skills Test Maneuvers One Step at a Time

Understanding and practicing the WA Skills Test maneuvers is essential for safe driving and test success. At WMST, learners engage in hands-on instruction focused on the five key maneuvers, real-time feedback, and confidence-building mock tests.

If you’re preparing for the Skills Test in Washington and want structured, reliable training that aligns with state expectations, explore WMST’s program offerings and begin mastering these maneuvers today.

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