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REVERSE PARKING
Master parallel parking with confidence.
Reverse parking (parallel parking) is a must-have skill for your driving test and everyday driving. Our step-by-step guide covers the technique, reference points and what the examiner is looking for.
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What is reverse parking?
Reverse parking — also known as parallel parking — involves reversing your vehicle into a space behind a parked car alongside a kerb. It is one of the manoeuvres that may be asked on the practical driving test. The examiner wants to see safe, accurate and controlled parking within a reasonable distance of the kerb.
How to reverse park step by step
Pull up alongside the car in front of the space, leaving about a metre between you. Check mirrors and blind spots. Begin reversing slowly — as your car passes the rear of the parked car, start turning the steering wheel towards the kerb. When the car is at about 45 degrees to the kerb, turn the wheel back the other way to straighten up. Finish parallel to the kerb and no more than about 30cm away.
Position Your Car
Park alongside the car in front of the space, roughly level with its rear bumper and about a metre away.
Observation Throughout
Check mirrors and all blind spots continuously as you reverse. Yield to any road users passing behind you.
Slow Clutch Control
Keep your speed very slow using clutch control. Slower speed gives you more time to steer accurately.
Steering Sequence
Steer left towards the kerb, then straighten up, then steer right to align parallel — the sequence depends on your reference points.
Kerb Distance
Aim to finish parallel and close to the kerb — ideally within 30cm. Wheels on the kerb or an angle greater than a few degrees will attract faults.
Reference Points
Develop reference points in the mirrors or windows that tell you when to start turning and when to straighten. Ask your instructor to help.
Reverse parking on the driving test
You may be asked to reverse park during your test. The examiner assesses accuracy (ending parallel and close to the kerb), observation (checking mirrors and blind spots throughout) and control (smooth, slow speed). Do not panic if you need a small forward adjustment — this is allowed. What matters is the final position and your observation.
Perfect your reverse parking with RED
Your instructor will practise reverse parking with you in real streets until you feel confident.
