The Secrets of Parallel Parking

Today is Friday the 13th (first one of the year), which is a perfect time to talk about one of the most feared parts of the driving test: parallel parking.

Here is an article I wrote about it. Of course, more details can be found in my driving test guide.

Driving Test Secrets: Step-by-Step Guide on Parallel Parking for Beginner Drivers

Parallel parking is the most intimidating aspect of taking a driving test. Even experienced motorists have trouble with parallel parking. They got plenty of practice when they were preparing for their test, and got out of practice after passing it. Even after you pass your test, you should continue parallel parking. It's an important skill that will come in handy when you need a parking space!

There are videos online that show how to parallel park in detail. Just watch those videos and read this step-by-step guide:

• First, you need to practice. In order to practice, look for a parking space. There should be enough room for you to move your car into without hitting or pumping into another vehicle. The space should be longer than your vehicle. Drive down the street until you see a large enough spot.

• Once you see a space, check the side and rearview mirrors. As you approach the spot, signal towards it. Slowly come to a stop. Should another vehicle ride up on your rear, just maintain the position. Keep on signaling. If the other driver doesn't realize what you are doing, wave them around.

• Line up with the parked car directly in front of the spot. Line up with it without getting too close to it. Being 2-3 feet away from it should suffice. Position your car parallel to that parked car.

• Put your car in reverse. When the street is clear behind you, back up. Look over your shoulder to make sure that there is enough space to move in. Steer the wheel to the right. Let off the brakes. Carefully and slowly begin to back into the turn.

• Your car should be sufficiently away from bumper of the car or truck parked in front of the spot as you slide into it. All you have to do is change gear and pull your car forward about three feet.

• Once the rear is in the space, turn the wheel to the left, still going backward. Continue moving in reverse. Go as far back as you possibly can without bumping or hitting the vehicle parked behind you.

• Change the shift into drive. Afterwards, turn the wheel to your right. You must move forward to the curb. Try to center your car in the spot as best you can. It shouldn't be difficult if you've done everything correctly.

Now, you should be parked perfectly in the space! If you are not, you can try again. Just signal that you are going to leave the spot and pull out. Pull back up until you are aligned with the parked vehicle in front of you again. Just start over. Keep trying until you can parallel park!

If you follow this guide and watch some parallel parking videos, you should be able to parallel park well enough to pass your driving test! There are plenty of driving resources and tips online to help you become a good driver.

Getting your driver's license is not that hard. If you would like to pass your driving test without trying so hard, you should get yourself this amazing driving test guide.

Hopefully this article reduced your fear. Even by a little.

Nadav

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