Parallel parking (sometimes called 'parking behind a parked vehicle') is one of the manoeuvres that may come up on your driving test. Many learners find it daunting, but with the right reference points and a methodical approach, it becomes predictable and reliable every time.
1When will you be asked to do it?
The examiner may ask you to pull up on the left and then parallel park into the space behind a parked car. You'll be told clearly what to do. You're allowed to take your time — there's no rush, and you can make corrections as you go.
You won't always be asked to parallel park on your test — it's one of several possible manoeuvres. But you must be prepared for it.
2Step-by-step: how to parallel park
1. Pull up alongside the car in front of the space — about half a metre out and level with its back bumper.
2. Select reverse, check all mirrors, and look over your right shoulder.
3. Begin reversing slowly. When the back of the target car appears in your rear window (roughly level with your rear axle), steer full lock to the left.
4. Continue reversing slowly. When your car is at roughly 45° to the kerb (you'll be facing slightly into the road), steer full lock to the right.
5. Continue reversing slowly, straightening as you come parallel to the kerb. Aim to end up about 30 cm from the kerb.
6. Straighten the wheel and stop. Apply the handbrake.
💡 Tips
- •Go slowly — the slower you move, the more control you have over the steering.
- •If you end up at the wrong angle, simply correct forward and re-try — one correction is fine.
- •Keep checking all-round observations throughout, including for pedestrians and cyclists.
3Reference points
Reference points help you know when to steer without guessing. Common reference points for parallel parking:
• When to first steer left: When the back of the car in front disappears from your rear window view, or when the car ahead is roughly level with your B-pillar (the post between front and back doors).
• When to steer right: When your car is at approximately 45° to the kerb — you'll be able to see the kerb in your left door mirror.
• When to straighten: When you can see in the left door mirror that you're running parallel to the kerb.
These vary slightly between cars, so always practice in the car you'll use for your test.
4Common mistakes
• Moving too fast — you lose control of the steering response. • Not checking mirrors and blind spots throughout the manoeuvre. • Ending too far from the kerb (more than 30–40 cm is a fault). • Mounting the kerb — a serious fault if you do it sharply. • Forgetting to look for oncoming traffic before reversing out into the road. • Not completing the manoeuvre within a reasonable distance of the car in front.
💡 Tips
- •If you touch the kerb, stop and correct — don't continue over it.
- •Your examiner expects neat, controlled driving — not perfection first time.