The kerb side stop is one of the most common tasks in the WA Practical Driving Assessment (PDA). It sounds simple. However, many learner drivers in Perth lose marks here because they rush it or stop in an illegal spot.
The good news? With the right routine, this task becomes one of the easiest parts of your driving test. In this guide, a Perth driving instructor breaks down exactly how to do it, step by step.
What Is a Kerb Side Stop in the PDA?
During the assessment, your assessor will ask you to pull over and stop at the side of the road. For example, they might say, “When it is safe, please pull over and stop.” More information is in the Drive Safe Handbook.
The assessor wants to see three things. First, you choose a safe and legal place to stop. Next, you follow a clear system of mirrors, signalling, and smooth braking. Finally, you position the car close to the kerb without touching it.
Step-by-Step: How to Do a Kerb Side Stop
Follow this routine every time, and it will soon feel automatic.
Step 1: Check Your Mirrors First
Before anything else, check your rear-view mirror and then your left mirror. As a result, you will know what is behind you and whether a cyclist is coming up on your left. Never signal or brake before you know what is around you.
Step 2: Indicate for at Least 5 Seconds
Turn on your left indicator and let it run for a minimum of 5 seconds before you start braking. This gives drivers behind you plenty of warning. In addition, it shows the assessor that you plan ahead instead of reacting at the last moment.
Step 3: Slow Down Gently
After signalling, ease off the accelerator and brake smoothly. Harsh braking is a common fault in the driving test WA assessors watch for. Therefore, start slowing early so you never need to stamp on the brake pedal.
Step 4: Guide the Car Close to the Kerb
Now steer gently towards the left while checking your left side mirror. Here is a simple instructor trick: in the left mirror, line up the car’s rear door handle with the kerb. If the rear door handle sits just above the kerb line in the mirror, you are close without touching it.
This reference point helps you avoid two common faults:
- Stopping too far from the kerb (more than about 30 cm away)
- Hitting or mounting the kerb, which can end your test
Step 5: Stop Smoothly and Secure the Car
Bring the car to a gentle, complete stop parallel to the kerb. Then apply the handbrake and select Park (or neutral in a manual). Finally, cancel your indicator if it has not switched off by itself.
Where NOT to Stop: Choosing a Safe and Legal Spot
Choosing the right spot matters just as much as the stop itself. In fact, stopping in an illegal place can cost you the test even if your control is perfect.
Avoid stopping in these places:
- On or near an “H” sign. This marks a fire hydrant, and you must never park over it.
- Across someone’s driveway. Blocking a driveway is illegal and marks a fault.
- Near bends or curves. Drivers coming around the bend cannot see you in time.
- Next to traffic islands. Stopping here forces other cars into a dangerous squeeze.
- Where the road has a solid dividing line. Vehicles cannot legally cross it to pass you.
- Beside cars parked on the verge. Do not obstruct them or box them in.
- Anywhere with poor visibility. Always choose a spot where other drivers can see you clearly from a distance.
Overall, aim for a long, straight, open stretch of road with no signs, driveways, or hazards. Maximum visibility keeps everyone safe and keeps the assessor happy.
Common Mistakes That Cost Marks
Even confident learners slip up on this task. Watch out for these faults:
- Braking before checking mirrors or signalling
- Indicating for less than 5 seconds before slowing down
- Harsh, jerky braking instead of a gradual stop
- Touching or mounting the kerb
- Stopping too far from the kerb
- Forgetting the handbrake after stopping
- Picking an illegal spot, such as near a hydrant or driveway
Most of these mistakes come from rushing. Consequently, the best fix is simple: start your routine early and give yourself time.
How Do You Move Off Again Safely?
After the stop, the assessor will ask you to drive on. First, check your rear-view mirror and right mirror. Next, signal right for at least 5 seconds. Then check your right blind spot over your shoulder. Finally, move off smoothly when there is a safe gap.
Moving off is assessed too, so treat it with the same care as the stop.
Practise Before Your PDA
Reading tips helps, but practice builds the habit. Ask your supervisor or driving instructor Perth learners trust to call random kerb side stops during your driving lessons. Practise on different roads around your PDA test centre, because each area has its own mix of driveways, bends, and parking signs.
For official guidance, review the Learner driver resources and the Driving Techniques for Safer Drivers booklet from Transport WA. When you feel ready, you can book your PDA online.
Frequently Asked Questions
How close to the kerb should I stop in the WA driving test?
Aim to stop parallel to the kerb and within about 30 cm of it. Use the rear door handle trick in your left mirror to judge the distance without touching the kerb.
Will I fail the PDA if I hit the kerb?
Lightly brushing the kerb may record a fault. However, mounting the kerb is usually assessed as a serious error and can fail your test. Slow speed and mirror checks help you avoid both.
How long should I indicate before pulling over?
Indicate for at least 5 seconds before you begin braking. This gives traffic behind you clear warning and shows the assessor you plan ahead.
Can I stop near a fire hydrant during the test?
No. Never stop on or next to an “H” sign, which marks a fire hydrant. Choose a clear, legal stretch of kerb instead.
How many kerb side stops are in the PDA?
Most assessments include at least one pull-over task, and some include more. Because you never know when it will come, practise the routine until it feels automatic.
Master the Kerb Side Stop with DriveSolo Perth
A confident kerb side stop comes from a proven routine and plenty of practice. At Drive Solo Driving School, our patient instructors teach you exact reference points, legal parking rules, and the full PDA test route knowledge you need.
Ready to pass your driving test in Perth the first time? Book your driving lesson with DriveSolo today and turn the kerb side stop into your easiest task on test day. For more information, contact us at 0434 904 360 or email us at info@drivesolo.com.au.
