Parallel Parking

• Reverse into a space of about two car lengths
• Park your car at the curb safely, smoothly and under control.

The examiner will also be looking to see that you:

• Take all-round observation
• Do not get too close to the parked car
• Do not mount the curb and stop reasonably close to it.

Reverse parallel parking, parking in the gap between two vehicles, is a vital driving manoeuvre. You may think it easier to drive forward into the gap however it is nearly impossible to park neatly this way. A car has greater manoeuvrability when driven in reverse hence reverse parallel parking.

With practise you'll be able to reverse parallel park into a gap of 1.5 times your own car length. All reversing manoeuvres are potentially dangerous, reverse parallel parking is no exception. Good and precise observation is essential when performing a parallel park.

On your practical driving test, if asked to perform the reverse parallel parking manoeuvre, you will not necessarily be required to park between two vehicles. It may be that only one parked car, the lead car, is present. If so, you will still need to park within a space of about two-car length in order to pass.