Moving off from a parked or stationary position looks simple until a learner must coordinate traffic observation, signalling, vehicle preparation and gap judgement. A useful lesson separates these tasks before asking the student to combine them.
Begin with the rule, not the steering
In South Australia, a driver leaving a stationary position at the side of the road must give a change-of-direction signal for at least five seconds. The driver must also give way to traffic already using the road, including cyclists and motorcyclists.
The signal warns others of an intention. It does not give the driver priority to enter a lane, and signalling for five seconds does not mean the gap will remain safe throughout that period.
Use a sequence that allows reassessment
First, secure and prepare the vehicle appropriately. Check the mirrors and the traffic environment. Signal with sufficient warning and meet the five-second requirement. Before moving, make a fresh mirror and relevant blind-spot check, look forward and reassess whether there is a safe opening.
If the gap disappears, remain stationary. The learner should not feel forced to move merely because the indicator has already been operating.
Teach speed and position together
The departure should be controlled and predictable. A hesitant pull-out can leave the vehicle partly in the traffic lane for too long, while excessive acceleration can reduce the driver’s ability to respond to an unexpected road user. Practise steering and gentle acceleration in quieter locations before introducing traffic.
Where the road is narrow or visibility is restricted, ask the student to describe how their chosen entry would affect an approaching bicycle rider, motorcyclist or car.
Common mistakes to diagnose
Short signal: The learner moves as soon as the indicator starts. Coach preparation so there is time to meet the requirement.
No final assessment: The student checked when first parked but did not check again before moving. Reinforce the need for a fresh decision.
Blind-spot check without meaning: The learner performs a head turn but cannot identify the area checked. Demonstrate what the mirrors conceal.
Incorrect gap selection: The learner forces an approaching vehicle to slow sharply. Practise evaluating larger gaps with clear visibility.
A strong learning outcome
The successful student can explain the signal requirement, identify who must be given way to and leave the kerb without making another road user react suddenly. That demonstrates transferable decision-making, not simply a memorised test sequence.
For instructors and training candidates: Explore DAA training and services. DAA provides training and preparation services; it is not the South Australian licensing regulator.
Official sources checked
Related starting material: Happy Driving School original guide / insights. This DAA article is newly written for instructor education, not a republication.
Educational material, reviewed against public guidance on 16 October 2026. Not legal advice or an official competency assessment. Check current legislation, DIT guidance and approved assessment instruments before publication or use in formal assessment.