Parallel parking trips up a lot of drivers, but it comes down to a repeatable sequence of reference points. Once you learn the turns, you can slide into a curbside spot smoothly and with confidence.
What you'll need
- A car
- A parking space at least a bit longer than your car
Step by step
- Find a suitable spacePick a spot that is roughly one and a half car lengths long so you have room to maneuver. Signal so drivers behind know you are about to park.
- Line up with the front carPull up alongside the car ahead of the space, leaving about two to three feet between you, with your rear bumpers roughly even. This is your starting position.
- Reverse and turn toward the curbPut the car in reverse, check your mirrors and over your shoulder, and back up slowly while turning the wheel fully toward the curb. Watch for pedestrians and traffic the whole time.
- Straighten as you enterWhen your car is at about a 45-degree angle and the front car's rear appears in your side mirror, straighten the wheel and keep backing in slowly.
- Turn the wheel the other wayOnce your front bumper clears the rear of the car ahead, turn the wheel fully the opposite direction and continue reversing to swing the front in toward the curb.
- Straighten and adjustStraighten the wheels and center the car in the space, pulling forward or back as needed. Leave a similar gap front and back, and get within about a foot of the curb.
Handy tips
- Go slowly and use your mirrors and shoulder checks throughout, since speed is what causes most mistakes.
- Practice in an empty lot with cones or in a quiet street before trying a busy road.
- Reference points on your own car, like when the neighbor's bumper hits your mirror, make the turns repeatable.
Heads up
- Check your mirrors and blind spots for cyclists and pedestrians before and during every part of the maneuver.
- Watch that your bumpers do not touch the cars ahead and behind, and leave enough room for everyone to exit.
FAQ
How much space do I need to parallel park?
A spot about one and a half times your car's length gives comfortable room. Tighter spaces are possible with practice but leave less margin for error.
How close should I be to the curb?
Aim for roughly six to twelve inches. Too far out can block traffic or earn a ticket, while touching the curb can scuff your tires or rims.
What if I do not fit on the first try?
Pull forward, realign with the front car, and start the sequence again. There is no shame in resetting, and it is safer than forcing a bad angle.