Parallel parking is often considered to be one of the trickiest skills to master, especially for new drivers preparing for a driving test.
But with the right approach and a few tips, you can turn this challenge into a skill you feel confident about.
In this blog, we’ll walk through every step in an easy-to-follow way, helping you feel prepared and relaxed next time you approach a parking spot. With practice, you’ll parallel park like a pro.
1: Select the Right Parking Spot for Your Car
The first step to successful parallel parking is choosing an appropriate spot. Aim for one that’s about 1.5 times the length of your car—starting with a roomy space gives you the freedom to practice without stress.
This approach is especially helpful if you’re working on parallel parking for the driving test.
2. Signal and Position Your Vehicle
Turn on your signal as you approach the parking spot. Using your signal alerts other drivers of your intent, allowing you the space to maneuver safely.
Pull up about two feet from the car in front of your chosen spot, positioning your car parallel to it. This initial positioning sets you up for a smoother entry.
3. Align Your Car and Angle It Into the Parking Spot
As you begin to reverse, stop when your rear bumper aligns with the bumper of the parked car in front. This alignment gives you the angle you need to move into the spot comfortably.
Start turning the wheel to the right to angle your car towards the curb. Taking your time here builds the confidence needed to master parallel parking.
4. Begin Reversing Slowly and Check Mirrors
Shift into reverse gear and start backing up gradually. Pay close attention to your side mirrors and rearview mirror to stay aware of your surroundings and maintain a safe position relative to the curb.
This careful approach is not only essential for passing your road test but is also a valuable skill for everyday driving.
5. Position Your Car Near the Curb
As you reverse, stop when your front door mirror lines up with the rear bumper of the car in front.
This position means that your rear tire is now near the curb, making it easier to angle the car into the parking spot. Practicing this positioning can significantly boost your parallel parking accuracy.
6. Turn the Wheel to the Left to Guide the Car
With the car angled toward the curb, turn the steering wheel to the left. This step brings your car fully into the parking space while leaving enough distance from the vehicle behind.
Practicing this turn gives you control over your approach, helping you feel ready for the parallel parking portion of the test.
7. Back Up Carefully to Finalize Your Position
Continue reversing carefully until you’re in the parking space, using your mirrors to avoid getting too close to the curb or surrounding vehicles.
This cautious backing up not only ensures a smooth parking job but also prepares you to manage this skill confidently in any driving situation.
8. Straighten Your Wheels For Smooth Parallel Parking
Once your car is in line with the curb, straighten out the steering wheel. This is the finishing touch for a neat parallel park.
Ensuring your car is aligned shows examiners that you have a strong grasp of parallel parking skills, a critical element in most driving tests.
9. Make Minor Adjustments to Center Your Car
If you need to, move forward or backward slightly to get your car well-centered within the space. Adjustments are normal, especially when practicing.
Keeping the car centered shows control and precision—qualities valued in the road test.
10. Confirm Your Distance from the Curb
After completing your parking, check that you’re within 6–12 inches from the curb. Maintaining this distance is not only required in the parallel parking test but is also good practice for real-world parking.
11. Perform a Final Safety Check
Before stepping out of the vehicle, double-check your mirrors to ensure it’s safe to exit. If you’re pulling out, signal your intent so other drivers are aware.
These last checks make a positive impression during the test and reinforce safe driving habits.
12. Practice Makes Perfect
Parallel parking is a skill that improves with practice. Challenge yourself by practicing in different types of spaces, and work up to tighter spots as you gain confidence.
Regular practice will help you master the parallel parking requirements for your driving test.
How CMSC Driving School Helps You Build Confidence
At CMSC Driving School, we provide structured training that helps drivers master parallel parking skills and build confidence behind the wheel. Our instructors offer real-time guidance tailored to each driver’s needs, ensuring you feel fully prepared for your road test.
For those pursuing a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), we offer specialized CDL training to help commercial drivers manage larger vehicles with precision.
Wrapping Up
Parallel parking skills come easier with time and practice. By following these steps and giving yourself plenty of time to practice, you’ll not only feel prepared for your driving test but also develop confidence in any parking situation. Embrace the process, keep practicing, and soon you’ll be able to parallel park anywhere with ease.
If you’re looking to perfect your parallel parking skills, CMSC Driving School offers a specialized Parallel Park Bootcamp designed to build confidence and precision. Our instructors provide hands-on training in a supportive environment, guiding you through every technique needed to master parallel parking with ease.
This course is tailored to meet the needs of both new and experienced drivers, ensuring you feel fully prepared for any parking situation, including the parallel parking requirements of your driving test. Whether you’re refining your skills or starting from scratch, Parallel Park Bootcamp offers the focused practice and expert feedback you need to succeed.
