Parallel parking worries most new drivers—around 70% admit it’s the part of the test they find hardest. The good news? It’s much easier once you break it into small steps. With practice, you’ll park smoothly without second-guessing yourself.
This guide explains parallel parking in plain language so you know exactly what to do, from setting up your car to straightening out at the end. Think of it as your step-by-step roadmap to a skill that feels tough at first but quickly becomes routine.
Why Parallel Parking Matters
Parallel parking is more than just a driving test requirement. It’s something you’ll use whenever you’re driving in towns, cities, or crowded areas where space is tight. That’s why instructors spend extra time on it during a driving lesson.
Most learners feel nervous because they try to do it all at once instead of step by step. But when you learn the right order—position, reverse, straighten—it suddenly makes sense. If you’re starting your journey, automatic driving lessons near me are a great way to get one-on-one guidance in real situations.
Step 1: Position Your Car
Start by pulling up next to the car in front of the space. Keep about two to three feet of distance and line up your rear bumper with theirs. This setup gives you enough room to maneuver without bumping the curb or getting too close to the other car.
It may feel slow at first, but the setup is half the battle. Once your car is in the right place, the rest of the maneuver becomes much smoother.
Want to practice with less stress? Ask your instructor for automatic driving lessons that focus on parking techniques.
Step 2: Begin Reversing
Shift into reverse and check your mirrors and blind spots. As you start moving back slowly, turn the wheel toward the curb once the back of your car clears the bumper of the car ahead. Keep your speed steady—slow is always better when learning.
This is the moment where learners often panic, but small, gentle movements are all you need. Think of it like guiding the car into the space, not forcing it.
If you’re learning to drive in the UK, practicing this step during a driving lesson will help you build confidence.
Step 3: Straighten and Adjust
Once the front of your car has cleared the car ahead, straighten the wheel and continue backing in. Your aim is to stop about six to twelve inches from the curb. If you end up too far or too close, don’t worry—pull forward a little and adjust. Even experienced drivers do this.
The key is control, not perfection. Examiners want to see that you know how to manage the car safely.
If you’re curious about the cost of driving lessons, many schools offer flexible packages that let you spend extra time practicing parking until it feels natural.
Common Mistakes Beginners Make
- Turning the wheel too soon or too late.
- Forgetting to signal before starting.
- Rushing instead of taking it step by step.
These are normal mistakes. With practice, they become less frequent, and your parking will feel automatic.
Looking to improve? Consider driving lessons automatic to practice parallel parking with full guidance from an instructor.
Learn to Drive with Confidence
Parallel parking feels intimidating at first, but it’s a skill anyone can master. By practicing regularly and breaking it down into steps, you’ll find yourself parking with ease, not stress.
If you’re ready to feel more confident, explore options like automatic learning to drive, book automatic driving lessons near me, and ask about the Cost of driving lessons that work for your budget. A focused driving lesson can give you the skills you need not just to pass your test but to drive comfortably in everyday life.