How many steps should be taken in a walk and turn?

How many steps should be taken in a walk and turn?

• A. 9
• B. 7
• C. 12
• D. 6

Answer: (A)

The walk-and-turn test uses a fixed step count to standardize how well a person can balance and divide attention. In this procedure, the suspect is told to take nine steps heel-to-toe along a straight line, then turn on one foot and take nine steps back in the same manner. This consistent nine-step sequence provides a reliable framework for observing balance issues, missteps, or timing problems that suggest impairment. Because the count is standardized, deviations from it would change what the officer is evaluating and make scoring inconsistent. So nine steps is the correct standard for this part of the test.

The walk-and-turn test uses a fixed step count to standardize how well a person can balance and divide attention. In this procedure, the suspect is told to take nine steps heel-to-toe along a straight line, then turn on one foot and take nine steps back in the same manner. This consistent nine-step sequence provides a reliable framework for observing balance issues, missteps, or timing problems that suggest impairment. Because the count is standardized, deviations from it would change what the officer is evaluating and make scoring inconsistent. So nine steps is the correct standard for this part of the test.