Step By Step Guide to Quickly Learn Parallel Parking

Parallel parking is one of three driving test manoeuvres that strike fear into learner drivers. Even long-term drivers often consider it to be one of the trickiest skills to implement in day-to-day driving. However, it is still a necessary skill to learn if you want to pass your driving test. 

We wrote this guide to parallel parking to share everything we wished we knew when we started driving. Read on to learn how to parallel park the right way and at a quicker pace than you may initially expect. 

What is Parallel Parking?

Parallel parking is a technique where you park your car parallel to the road by reversing into a parking space. This skill is particularly useful on busy streets with limited parking options. While it may seem intimidating at first, practice makes perfect, and over time it becomes second nature.

You’ll find that mastering parallel parking not only boosts your confidence but also prepares you for the driving test. It’s a necessary manoeuver that requires careful attention to your surroundings and precise control of your vehicle. Don’t let these specifics intimidate you, however, as we are here to guide you through each step of this tricky technique.

How to Parallel Park

Learning to reverse parallel park is all about good technique. When you have good technique it becomes easier to repeat it. Then, all you have to do is get enough practice until parallel parking is practically second nature. 

So, here’s how to parallel park step by step: 

1. Position Your Vehicle

Begin by positioning your vehicle parallel to the car in front, making sure there’s about 2 feet of space between them. Make sure your passenger window is aligned with the driver's window of the parked car. 

Before you begin reversing, check all your mirrors and blind spots to confirm the area is clear. Signalling your intention to park can also alert other drivers to your actions. You’re now ready to start reversing. 

2. Turning Point One

Begin reversing your vehicle while checking your surroundings. Turn the steering wheel one full turn towards the curb when the rear window of your car is passed the rear tyre of the parked vehicle. 

This initial turn, known as Turning Point One, sets the angle for the back of your car to start moving into the space. Use slow and controlled movements to maintain precision. 

3. Turning Point Two

Reversing slowly, the curb will start to appear in our wing mirror. This is Turning Point Two so it’s time to slow down or stop and make two full turns of the steering wheel away from the curb. 

It’s important to be patient and make small adjustments as needed. If you find that your vehicle isn’t straightening out as expected, pause and reassess your position. Keep an eye out for the curb in your wing mirror and the parked car behind you in the rearview mirror. 

4. Straighten Up

With everything going smoothly, you’ll start to see the car aligning parallel with the curb. Keep your pace steady to avoid sudden movements that could throw off your alignment. Adjust your position as needed to maintain the desired distance from the curb; typically around 6-12 inches. 

There are no issues when a car is not completely aligned with the curb in the driving test. It doesn’t have to be perfect and the examiner will tell you when you’ve completed the manoeuvre. 

Parallel Parking Tips For Driving Test

Anything can happen on your driving test, so it can be good for your comfort and confidence to be prepared. Here are a few things that can put you ahead of other learner drivers by getting to grips with them now: 

Driving in Different Weather Conditions

Varied weather patterns generally don’t tend to cause too many changes to your reverse parallel parking technique. 

However, in wet weather, snow, ice and foggy conditions, you should always take extra care to control the car due to the surface and reduced visibility. It is enlightening to know though that your practical driving test is likely to be postponed if the weather conditions are too bad. 

Driving in Alternate Car Types

Larger cars, like 4x4s and estates, usually need more space for parallel parking and have limited visibility, so take extra caution. On the other hand, smaller cars often fit into tighter spots more easily. 

It’s important to first be familiar with your vehicle’s dimensions and handling to improve your parallel parking success. This is going to be the car that you take your driving test with so get confident with that. Once you’ve passed your driving exam, you can practice with other cars. 

Have a Practice Routine

Start by selecting different spots around your neighbourhood, such as quiet streets and busy areas, to simulate various scenarios. Use reference points like the 1:2:1 method (one turn to the curb, two the opposite way, one to straighten out). 

Regular practice not only builds muscle memory but also helps you become more comfortable with the manoeuver. Dedicate specific times each week to focus on parallel parking, increasing the difficulty level of the locations you choose.

Positive Visualisation

Visualise a successful parallel parking manoeuver each time before you attempt it. This positive imagery will help boost your confidence and reduce anxiety. Mentally rehearse each step of the process, from indicating your intention to park to positioning and steering your car accurately.

Do I Need to Parallel Park on My Driving Test?

In the UK, since 2017, there’s a one-in-four chance you’ll be asked to perform this manoeuver. The examiner will inform you on your driving test ahead of time which manoeuver you need to perform. 

This is why it’s important to practice all four key manoeuvers: parallel parking, bay parking, pulling up on the right, and an emergency stop.

If I Can’t Parallel Park, Will I Fail My Driving Exam?

Minor faults, like touching the curb lightly, might not cause an immediate failure on your driving exam. However, serious faults, such as hitting another car or failing to observe adequately, can lead to failure.

Even if parallel parking isn’t your strongest skill, it doesn’t automatically mean you’ll fail your driving exam. Examiners look at your overall ability to handle the car safely, including your observations and how close you park to other vehicles and the curb.

How Technology Can Help Drivers

Modern cars are filled with technology to help drivers park. Reverse sensors and cameras are the two main parking features that new cars are equipped with.

 If you’re lucky enough to learn in one of these cars, then use it to your advantage. However, there’s great value in learning without as it gives you the knowledge to drive in any car. 

Want to Practice Parallel Parking With a Professional Instructor?

If you’re eager to get out on the road and practice your new-found parking technique, book an EzLicence driving lesson! 

All you have to do is search for an instructor in your area and book a time and date that suits you. There are many experienced instructors to choose from so you’ll always be able to get the practice you need. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the trick for parallel parking?

The trick for parallel parking is to align your car with the one in the parking bay in front of the space, reverse slowly while turning into the space, and adjust your steering to get your car parallel to the curb.

What is the 1-2-1 method of parallel parking?

The 1-2-1 method for parallel parking involves three simple steps: 

1. Start by aligning your car next to the vehicle in front of the space, then turn the steering wheel one full turn to the left while reversing. 
2. Next, turn the wheel two full turns to the right as your car enters the space. 
3. Finally, turn the wheel one full turn to the left to straighten the car parallel to the curb​ 

What is a common mistake when parallel parking?

A common mistake when parallel parking is failing to leave enough space between cars, which can lead to bumping into other parked cars, or not fitting into the space properly.

Can you correct a parallel park on a driving test?

Yes, you can correct your parking during a driving test; just make sure to do it slowly and with enough room to ensure your car ends up safely within the space.

How to get out of a tight parallel parking spot?

To get out of a tight parallel parking spot, check your surroundings for traffic, turn your wheel towards the busy street, and reverse a little before moving forward out of the spot.

Do you have to keep both hands on the wheel when parallel parking?

When parallel parking, it's important to always maintain control of the steering wheel. This may require adjusting hand positions but try to keep both hands on the wheel as much as possible.