How to Parallel Park

starting position

Start about a metre from the cars edge. Your back wheels should be slightly in front of the back of the other car. Steer towards the kerb.

angle

If you are parking between 2 cars, create an angle with the right side of your car, so that you can see at least half of the number plate of the car behind in your right hand mirror. (On test, if there is no car behind, then create a 30-45 degree angle).Then straighten your wheels.

get near the kerb

Reverse the car towards the kerb, and keep the wheels straight until your nearside rear wheel is 1.5 feet from the kerb. (Use your nearside mirror to work this one out). Make sure your front end is not going to hit the car in front. Then steer right.

straighten the wheels

When the front of the car has become paralell with the kerb, straighten the wheels again.

tidy up at the end

If you need to move forward to fix the position a little then do so. Your examiner won't mind, as long as you:

Don't hit the kerb
Don't take more than 2 minutes (traffic permitting).
Take care to look for vulnerable road users

Parking

In order to pass a driving test you will need to perfect your reverse parking. You will be asked to park behind a parked car and use no more than 2 car lengths to complete the manoeuvre. You may also be asked to park in the test centre, in a marked bay. Here are some tips:

Check your blindspot before turning (the car will swing out at the front).
Take care over your starting point. It is very important to begin in the right position.
Give Way to anyone not giving way to you! But if another driver is prepared to wait, then stay calm and carry on.
Don't rely on the mirrors. Check the rear windows incase you miss something!
If you don't fit first time, readjust it so that you finish in the right place.
Let the examiner know you've finished by fiercely applying the handbrake, selecting neutral and exhaling with a poignant finality.

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