Execution of the change of direction maneuver

Execution of the change of direction maneuver is one of the topics in the Priority block of the Spanish DGT theory. Who goes first: right-of-way rules at junctions, roundabouts, narrow sections and special cases. Understanding this section well helps you answer the theory-exam questions on this topic with confidence.

In practice, this comes down to the following:

  • It must state its purpose in the manner provided for in Article 109.
  • Unless the road is adapted or marked to do so otherwise, the driver must stick as closely as possible to the right edge of the carriageway if the change of direction is to the right, and to the left edge if it is to the…
  • If the change of direction is to the left, you will leave the center of the intersection on the left, unless it is equipped or marked to leave it on your right.

In short, the rule makes sure every road user knows what to expect in this situation.

Priority questions use concrete situations (junctions, roundabouts, narrow sections): first work out who has right of way and why.

📜 Reference legal text — Article 75 (1)

To carry out the manoeuvre, the driver:

  • It shall state its purpose in the manner provided for in Article 109.
  • Unless the road is adapted or marked to do so otherwise, the driver must stick as closely as possible to the right edge of the carriageway if the change of direction is to the right, and to the left edge if it is to the left and the carriageway is one-way. If it is to the left, but the carriageway on which he is travelling is a two-way carriageway, he must stick to the longitudinal marking separating the two directions or, if this does not exist, to the centre of the carriageway, without invading the area designated for the opposite direction; when the carriageway is a two-way carriageway with three lanes separated by broken longitudinal lines, he must position himself in the centre lane. In any case, the vehicle must be placed in the appropriate place with sufficient advance notice and the manoeuvre must be carried out in the shortest possible time and space.
  • If the change of direction is to the left, you will leave the center of the intersection on the left, unless it is equipped or marked to leave it on your right.
🔗 Read the official text on the BOE (Spanish General Traffic Regulations)

❓ Frequently asked questions

What is execution of the change of direction maneuver?
Execution of the change of direction maneuver is a DGT theory topic within the «Priority» block, governed by Artículo 75 (1) of the Spanish General Traffic Regulations. Above you will find a simple explanation and the reference legal text.
Does this topic appear in the DGT theory exam?
Yes. Every section of the General Traffic Regulations can appear in the theory exam. To practise with real questions, go to the TraficoTest platform.
Where is it regulated (Article 75 (1))?
This content comes from Article 75 (1) of the Spanish traffic regulations. You can read the official text on the BOE.

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