Moving Off and Stopping
Master the essential skills of moving away safely and stopping correctly — the foundation of confident driving.
Understanding the Controls
Before moving the car, you must be comfortable with the basic controls:
Clutch pedal: Press fully down to change gear and find the bite point.
Accelerator: Provides power to move the car.
Brake: Used to slow the vehicle safely.
Gear stick: Select first gear before moving off.
Handbrake: Holds the car still during preparation.
Foot positioning: Use the ball of your foot for clutch and brake control.
These controls work together to help you move off smoothly.
Observations Before Moving
It is essential to confirm the road is clear and it is safe before setting the car in motion.
Your checks should always follow this pattern:
- 1 Left mirror
- 2 Interior mirror
- 3 Right mirror
- 4 Right blind-spot check
Only move if you are certain it is safe.
If another road user is approaching, wait before moving.
Step-by-Step: Moving Off
1. Prepare (POM Routine)
- Press the clutch fully down
- Select first gear
- Apply gentle pressure to the accelerator
- Lift the clutch slowly to the bite point
- Keep the handbrake engaged during preparation
2. Observe
- Check all mirrors
- Check the right blind spot
- Signal only if it benefits another road user
3. Move
- Release the handbrake smoothly
- Add a small amount of gas
- Keep the clutch steady at the bite point
- Build up speed gently
- Steer smoothly and remain in position
Step-by-Step: Stopping Safely
1. Check Mirrors
- Interior mirror first
- Left mirror second
2. Signal
- Signal to inform other road users of your actions.
3. Slow Down Gradually
- Ease off the accelerator
- Apply smooth, progressive braking
- Press the clutch fully down just before the car stops
4. Position the Car
- Steer gently to the left
- Stop 10–20cm from the kerb
- Avoid touching or mounting the kerb
5. Secure the Car
- Apply the handbrake
- Select neutral
- Release the pedals
- Cancel the signal if used
The MSPSL Routine
MSPSL stands for Mirror, Signal, Position, Speed, Look.
This routine helps you stay safe whenever you move off, stop, turn, or approach hazards.
Mirror: Check mirrors to assess what's happening around you
Signal: Indicate in good time
Position: Maintain correct lane or road position
Speed: Adjust using clutch, accelerator, and brakes
Look: Final observations before committing to the manoeuvre
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Releasing the clutch too quickly
Find the biting point and gradually release the clutch as the car progresses.
Forgetting blind-spot checks
Always check over your right shoulder before moving off.
Harsh acceleration
Apply gentle gas to avoid jerky movement, not exceeding more than approximately 2000 revs.
Stopping too far from or too close to the kerb
Aim for 10–20cm from the kerb. Practise until consistent.
Pressing the clutch too early while slowing
Brake first, clutch down just before stopping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I stall when learning to move off?
Yes, it's completely normal to stall during the learning process. Most learners stall several times before mastering the bite point. Stay patient and practice regularly.
Do I always need to signal when moving off?
No, you should only signal if it benefits another road user. If you're parked on a quiet street with no traffic, signaling isn't necessary.
How close to the kerb should I stop?
The ideal distance is 10–20cm (about 4-8 inches) from the kerb. This is the sweet spot — far enough to avoid mounting the kerb, but close enough to be considered a proper stop during driving tests.
How long does it take to master moving off?
Most learners improve significantly within the first few lessons. With consistent practice, smooth moving off and stopping usually becomes second nature within 3-5 hours of driving instruction.
Next Steps
Continue strengthening your foundation by learning how to deal with oncoming traffic, parked vehicles, and narrow roads.
The next guide in this series is: