For many new drivers, the parallel parking portion of the DMV driving test can be the most intimidating challenge they'll face. That moment when the examiner directs you to park between two vehicles on a busy street can send anxiety levels through the roof. But here's the good news: parallel parking is a learnable skill that anyone can master with the right approach and plenty of practice.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to confidently ace your parallel parking test. From the fundamental steps to advanced techniques and common mistakes to avoid, we've got you covered with practical advice that has helped thousands of drivers pass their road tests with flying colors.
Step-by-Step Parallel Parking Guide
Successful parallel parking comes down to following a consistent method every time. Master these steps, and you'll be able to park confidently regardless of the space size (within reason, of course).
Step 1: Find an Appropriate Space
Before you begin the maneuver, ensure you've selected a suitable parking space:
- Look for a space that's at least 1.5 times the length of your vehicle (though your test will typically provide a space about twice your car's length)
- Check for fire hydrants, driveways, or other parking restrictions
- Activate your right turn signal to alert other drivers of your intention to park
- Position your vehicle approximately 2-3 feet away from the parked cars and aligned with the front vehicle
Step 2: Position Your Vehicle Correctly
Proper positioning before you begin backing up is crucial:
- Pull up alongside the front car, aligning your rear bumper with theirs (or slightly ahead)
- Leave approximately 2-3 feet of space between your vehicle and the parked car
- Come to a complete stop and shift into reverse
- Check all mirrors and blind spots before beginning to move backward
Step 3: Back Up and Turn the Wheel
This is where the real maneuver begins:
- Begin backing up slowly while keeping your vehicle parallel to the parked car
- Once your rear bumper aligns with the back bumper of the front vehicle, turn your steering wheel fully to the right (clockwise)
- Continue backing slowly while maintaining this wheel position
- Constantly check your mirrors and over your shoulder to monitor your position
Step 4: Straighten Out
As your car begins entering the space:
- When your front passenger door aligns with the rear bumper of the front vehicle, straighten your steering wheel
- Continue backing slowly in a straight line
- Keep checking your position relative to both vehicles
Step 5: Turn the Wheel in the Opposite Direction
Now it's time to bring the front of your car into the space:
- When your front passenger door handle aligns with the back vehicle's rear bumper, turn your steering wheel fully to the left (counterclockwise)
- Continue backing slowly until your vehicle is parallel to the curb
- Make sure to check your mirrors frequently during this phase
Step 6: Center and Adjust as Needed
The final adjustments ensure your parking position is correct:
- Straighten your wheels and center your car in the space
- Your vehicle should be parallel to the curb and approximately 6-12 inches away from it
- Make minor forward or backward adjustments if necessary
- Shift to park (or first gear with manual transmission) and apply the parking brake
Step 7: Exit Checks
Before concluding your parking:
- Check that your wheels are straight
- Ensure you're not more than 18 inches from the curb (the legal limit in most states)
- Verify that your vehicle isn't blocking any driveways, fire hydrants, or crosswalks
- Turn off your signal
Common Parallel Parking Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced drivers can make these errors. Being aware of them will help you avoid critical mistakes during your test.
Starting from the Wrong Position
One of the most common errors is incorrect initial positioning:
- Starting too far from the curb: If you begin more than 3 feet from the parked cars, you'll likely end up too far from the curb when finished
- Starting too close to the front car: Without enough gap, you won't have the necessary angle to enter the space
- Aligning your front bumper instead of rear bumper: This throws off the entire geometry of the maneuver
- Failing to come to a complete stop before shifting to reverse: Examiners will be watching for this safety step
Poor Wheel Control
How you handle the steering wheel dramatically affects your success:
- Turning the wheel too early or too late: Timing is everything in parallel parking
- Not turning the wheel fully: Halfway turns lead to poor positioning
- Turning too quickly while moving: This can cause jerky movements and poor control
- Adjusting the wheel while stationary: This wears on your tires and power steering system
Speed and Control Issues
The pace of your maneuver matters significantly:
- Backing up too quickly: Rushing increases the likelihood of mistakes and collisions
- Moving too slowly: Excessive caution can make it difficult to maintain smooth control
- Inconsistent speed: Stuttering movements make it harder to judge distances
- Failing to make final adjustments: Not fine-tuning your position can result in being too far from the curb
Awareness Failures
Situational awareness is crucial for both the test and real-world parking:
- Not checking mirrors frequently: Your mirrors provide essential information throughout the maneuver
- Missing blind spot checks: This is a safety critical error in the examiner's eyes
- Forgetting to signal: Indicating your intentions is required by law
- Tunnel vision on the space: Being unaware of surrounding traffic can be dangerous
Distance Judgment Errors
Spatial awareness challenges plague many new drivers:
- Ending up more than 12-18 inches from the curb: This is an automatic fail on most driving tests
- Getting too close to other vehicles: Leaving insufficient space can result in a failed test
- Not recognizing when adjustments are needed: Sometimes you need to pull out and try again
- Overcorrecting minor alignment issues: Small adjustments are better than major ones
Best Practice Techniques for Parking
Beyond the basic steps, these strategies will help you master parallel parking more quickly and effectively.
Using Reference Points
Experienced drivers rely on visual cues to judge position:
- Use your side mirrors to see the curb: Position the curb to appear at a consistent point in your mirror
- Align your side mirror with the back bumper of the front car: This helps time your initial turn
- Use window pillars as alignment guides: Your car's A, B, or C pillars can serve as reference points
- Note dashboard alignments with external objects: Find consistent reference points on your dashboard
Practice Progression Methods
A structured practice approach yields faster results:
- Start with no obstacles: Practice the movements in an empty parking lot first
- Use cones or pool noodles: These provide visual markers without risk of damage
- Progress to garbage cans: Slightly more substantial but still safe if contacted
- Practice between actual cars only after mastering with cones: Preferably in an empty lot with plenty of space
- Gradually reduce the parking space size: Work your way from generous to tight spaces
Mastering Different Vehicle Sizes
The technique varies slightly depending on what you're driving:
- Compact cars: Require less space but can make distance judgment harder
- Sedans: The standard approach works well with minor adjustments to turning points
- SUVs and trucks: Higher seating position changes your reference points; adjust accordingly
- Practice in the vehicle you'll use for your test: Familiarity with your test vehicle is crucial
Utilizing Technology Wisely
Modern vehicles offer helpful features, but don't become dependent on them:
- Backup cameras: Use them as supplements to, not replacements for, mirror checks
- Parking sensors: These can help judge distance but shouldn't be your only method
- Parking assistance systems: Know how to park without them, as they may not be allowed during tests
- Smartphone parking apps: Some apps can help you practice with visual guides
Mental Rehearsal Techniques
Psychological preparation is just as important as physical practice:
- Visualize successful parking: Mental imagery helps build muscle memory
- Use the "talk-through" method: Verbalize each step as you perform it
- Practice deep breathing before beginning: Reduces test anxiety
- Develop a pre-parking ritual: A consistent approach builds confidence
Real-World Variations to Master
The DMV test provides a controlled environment, but real-world parking presents additional challenges.
Uphill and Downhill Parking
Parking on inclines requires additional steps:
- For uphill parking: Turn your wheels away from the curb
- For downhill parking: Turn your wheels toward the curb
- Always apply the parking brake on any incline: Essential for both safety and your test
- Use "curbing" techniques: Lightly touch your tires to the curb as a safety measure
Tight Spaces in Urban Areas
City parking often requires advanced techniques:
- The "pull alongside and swing" method: For spaces that are barely larger than your vehicle
- Multi-point parking: Sometimes 3-5 adjustments are needed for very tight spaces
- S-curve approach: A modified entry pattern for congested areas
- The Austin Method: An alternative technique popular in crowded cities
Special Weather Considerations
Environmental factors affect parking technique:
- Wet conditions: Reduce speed further and anticipate longer stopping distances
- Snow parking: Look for the curb edge under snow buildup
- Bright sunlight: Use sun visors appropriately to maintain visibility
- Night parking: Use surroundings illuminated by your headlights as reference points
What to Expect on Test Day
Understanding the evaluation criteria helps target your practice effectively.
DMV Test Specifics
Test requirements vary by state, but generally include:
- Space size: Typically 1.5-2 times your vehicle length
- Maximum distance from curb: Usually 12-18 inches (check your state's specific requirement)
- Number of adjustments allowed: Most states permit 2-3 position adjustments
- Time limits: Some states impose time restrictions for completing the maneuver
Examiner Expectations
Beyond the technical aspects, examiners are looking for:
- Proper signaling: Indicating your intention to park
- Comprehensive observations: Checking mirrors and blind spots
- Smooth control operation: Gentle acceleration, braking, and steering
- Confident decision-making: Demonstrating you know what you're doing
- Appropriate caution: Taking your time without excessive delay
Test Day Strategies
Optimize your performance when it matters most:
- Arrive early to center yourself: Rushing increases anxiety
- Request clarification if needed: Don't guess what the examiner wants
- Perform a quick vehicle familiarity check: Adjust mirrors and seat before beginning
- Take a deep breath before starting: Calming yourself improves performance
- Narrate your actions if it helps: Some examiners appreciate this approach
- Remember that perfection isn't required: Minor adjustments are allowed
Final Preparation Tips
In the days leading up to your test, focus on these preparation strategies:
- Practice in the test location if possible: Familiarity with the area reduces anxiety
- Schedule final practice sessions at the same time as your test: Light and traffic conditions matter
- Review your state's DMV manual: Ensure you know the specific requirements
- Take practice tests on dmvexpert.com: Prepare for both the written and practical aspects
- Download the DMV Expert app from Google Play: Practice on the go
- Get adequate rest the night before: Fatigue impairs spatial awareness
- Avoid caffeine overload before the test: It can increase anxiety and affect fine motor control
- Arrive with a properly maintained vehicle: Ensure all signals and lights are functioning
Conclusion
Parallel parking doesn't have to be the nerve-wracking challenge many new drivers fear. With methodical practice following the techniques outlined in this guide, you can transform this skill from your biggest concern into a confident demonstration of your driving abilities.
Remember that even experienced drivers occasionally struggle with parallel parking in challenging situations. The key is developing a consistent approach that you can rely on under pressure. Practice regularly, use reference points that work for your vehicle, and stay calm on test day.
For additional preparation resources, including interactive tutorials and state-specific practice tests, visit dmvexpert.com or download our DMV Expert app from Google Play. Both resources offer specialized practice modules for parallel parking and other driving test components.
With patience, practice, and the right technique, you'll be parallel parking like a pro in no time—and acing your DMV driving test with confidence.