Parallel Parking

Learner drivers face plenty of challenges when preparing for the practical test. From mastering clutch control to confidently navigating around parked cars while dealing with oncoming traffic, your driving skills will be thoroughly tested. One area that often causes anxiety is manoeuvres—especially parallel parking. But fear not! LeoDrivingSchool's guide to parallel parking will have you ready in no time.

In this guide, we’ll break down the parallel parking manoeuvre step-by-step, explaining how to perform it safely, what the examiner will be assessing, and when this skill will come in handy in real life.

What is Parallel Parking?

Parallel parking is one of three manoeuvres you might be asked to demonstrate during your driving test. As the name suggests, this involves parking your car parallel to the kerb, usually in line with other vehicles.

During the test, you’ll typically position your vehicle next to a car in front of the desired parking space and then reverse into the space. While this is one of the more dreaded manoeuvres for learners, it becomes straightforward with proper guidance and practice.

There’s roughly a 1-in-3 chance of being asked to perform this manoeuvre during your test. The examiner's instructions may sound something like this:

“Stop on the left well before you get to the next parked car, please. This is the parallel parking exercise. When you're ready, drive forward and stop alongside the car ahead. Then, reverse into the space behind the other vehicle and park reasonably close to and parallel with the kerb. Try to complete the exercise within two car lengths.”

What is the Examiner Looking For?

During the parallel parking manoeuvre, the examiner will assess:

  • Coordination: Can you reverse and steer accurately while using your Mirrors-Signal-Manoeuvre (MSM) routine to maintain awareness of your surroundings?
  • Precision: Are you steering accurately and parking close to the kerb without hitting it or stopping too far away?
  • Control: Are you maintaining a slow and steady speed, demonstrating good clutch control throughout the manoeuvre?

It’s also vital to maintain constant observation, as you might become a hazard to other drivers during the manoeuvre.

Step-by-Step: How to Parallel Park

1. Pull Alongside the Car

  • Begin by parking on the left-hand side of the road, away from the nearest parked vehicle, as instructed by the examiner.
  • Check your right mirror and blindspot before moving forward.
  • Wait until the road is clear before starting.
  • Slowly pull forward alongside the parked car, maintaining a safe distance of around 0.5–1 metre.
  • Stop slightly ahead of the vehicle, cancel your indicator, and select reverse gear.

2. Use MSM and Position Correctly

  • Before reversing, perform all-round observations using your mirrors and check your blindspots.
  • Ensure the rear of your vehicle is level with the other car. (Your instructor will provide reference points during lessons, such as lining up the side mirrors if the vehicles are similar in size.)
  • Keep the car moving at a slow pace with good clutch control, stopping once you’re happy with the positioning.

3. Reverse into the Space

  • Begin reversing slowly, using MSM throughout.
  • Steer the wheel one full turn to the left to start turning into the space.
  • Keep checking your mirrors and blindspots for road users or pedestrians. Stop if needed to let others pass.
  • Your reference point will often be when the left corner of your car lines up with the right corner of the other vehicle. At this point, you can adjust your position if necessary.

4. Straighten Up

  • Steer full lock to the right to align your car parallel with the kerb.
  • Use your left-hand mirror to ensure your car is a suitable distance from the kerb.
  • If needed, make adjustments by moving forward slightly before reversing again.
  • Straighten the wheels before finishing, apply the handbrake, and select neutral.

Real-Life Applications

Parallel parking is an essential skill for real-world driving, especially in residential areas or city centres where space is limited. Whether parking outside your home or securing a spot in a busy street, being able to parallel park confidently is invaluable. Just ensure you always check for parking restrictions to avoid a fine!

FAQs

  1. How likely am I to be asked to perform this manoeuvre?
    There’s a 1-in-3 chance. Make sure you practise all three manoeuvres so you’re well-prepared.
  2. What are the other manoeuvres?
  3. Can I refuse to perform the manoeuvre?
    No. Refusing will result in your test being terminated. If you’re unsure about the instructions, you can ask the examiner for clarification.
  4. Where will I be asked to perform this?
    Examiners often choose quieter areas but can test you on busier roads.
  5. What if I hit the kerb?
    A slight nudge might be overlooked, but mounting the kerb will result in a fail.
  6. Do I need to complete it in one move?
    No. You can make adjustments as needed.
  7. Is there a time limit for the manoeuvre?
    Not officially, but you should aim to complete it efficiently.

With these tips and regular practice, you’ll be able to tackle parallel parking with confidence. At LeoDrivingSchool, our experienced instructors are here to guide you every step of the way. Book a lesson with us today and take the first step towards mastering this essential skill!