Introduction
Parallel parking is one of the skills many new drivers find most challenging. It requires coordination, patience, and practice. But when you follow the steps carefully, it becomes much easier than it looks. This lesson will walk you through how to parallel park safely between two vehicles.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Find a Safe Parking Spot
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Look for a space that is at least one and a half times the length of your car.
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Make sure the spot is legal and clear of fire hydrants, driveways, or signs that prohibit parking.
Step 2: Signal and Position Your Car
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Turn on your right turn signal to show you intend to park.
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Pull up parallel to the car in front of the parking space, leaving about 2–3 feet of space between your vehicle and theirs.
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Your rear bumper should line up with the rear bumper of the car beside you.
Step 3: Reverse and Begin Turning
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Check mirrors and blind spots for pedestrians or traffic.
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Shift into reverse.
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Slowly begin backing up while turning your steering wheel sharply toward the curb.
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Keep backing until your car is at about a 45-degree angle into the space.
Step 4: Straighten Out
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Straighten your steering wheel as your front end clears the back bumper of the car ahead.
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Continue reversing slowly into the space.
Step 5: Turn Away and Finish
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Once your front bumper clears the car in front, turn the wheel away from the curb to guide the front of your car into the space.
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Continue reversing until you are centered between the two parked cars.
Step 6: Adjust Your Position
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Pull forward or backward a few feet if necessary to straighten out.
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Make sure you are within 12 inches of the curb and evenly spaced between the cars in front and behind you.
Safety Reminders
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Always check your surroundings before and during the maneuver.
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Move slowly — parallel parking is about control, not speed.
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If the space feels too tight or unsafe, it’s okay to pass it up and find another.
Conclusion
Parallel parking takes practice, but when broken down into clear steps, it becomes manageable. Remember: line up, angle in, straighten, and adjust. With enough practice, you’ll gain confidence and be able to parallel park smoothly in almost any situation.