Introduction
Before attempting to parallel park between cars on the road, most driver education programs use cones to create a safe practice environment. The skill is the same, but cones give you a chance to build confidence without the risk of damaging another vehicle.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Set Up the Cones
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Place four cones to simulate two parked cars.
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Two cones mark the front car’s position and two cones mark the rear car’s position.
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The space between them should be about 1½ times the length of your car.
Step 2: Position Your Car
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Signal right to indicate you’re parking.
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Pull up parallel to the cone in front, leaving 2–3 feet of space between your car and the cone line.
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Your rear bumper should align with the first cone of the front “car.”
Step 3: Begin Reversing at an Angle
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Shift into reverse and check mirrors and blind spots.
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Slowly back up, turning your steering wheel toward the curb/cones.
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Continue until your car is at about a 45-degree angle into the space.
Step 4: Straighten Out
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Straighten your wheels and continue reversing into the space.
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Your front bumper should clear the back cone of the “front car.”
Step 5: Turn Away to Center
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Once your car’s front end has cleared, turn your steering wheel away from the cones to bring the front of your car into the space.
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Keep backing up slowly until your car is parallel with the curb line of cones.
Step 6: Adjust
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Pull forward or backward slightly to center your car between the cones.
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Your vehicle should end up straight, centered, and no more than 12 inches from the curb line.
Safety Reminders
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Use slow, controlled movements — speed is not important.
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Always check mirrors and blind spots, even when practicing with cones.
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Practice several times until the steps feel smooth and natural.
Conclusion
Parallel parking between cones gives you the chance to practice alignment, steering, and space judgment in a safe way. Mastering it here makes parking between real cars much less intimidating.