How to parallel park: the 5-step method

Parallel parking means reversing into a gap between two parked cars and finishing parallel to the curb. This guide parks on the right side of the road; in left-hand-traffic countries, swap left and right.

Step by step

1. Pull up beside the front car

   Stop alongside the car in front of the gap, about 50 cm–1 m away, with your rear bumpers roughly level.

2. Full lock toward the curb, back to 45°

   Shift to R, turn the wheel fully toward the curb and reverse slowly. Stop at about 45° to the curb — a common cue is seeing the whole front of the car behind in your opposite side mirror.

3. Straighten and reverse

   Center the wheel and back straight until your front corner on the curb side clears the front car’s rear bumper.

4. Opposite full lock

   Turn the wheel fully the other way and keep reversing slowly; the front swings into the gap. Stop when you are parallel to the curb.

5. Center and finish

   Straighten the wheel and pull forward a little to even out the gaps. Aim to be close to the curb (within ~30 cm) without touching it.

Reference points at a glance

Reference points shift a little with car size and seating position. Try it a few times in an empty lot or a simulator and settle on the ones that fit your car.

Common mistakes

• Starting too far out — beyond about 1 m you won’t reach the gap even at 45°.
• Counter-steering too early — your front corner catches the front car’s bumper.
• Counter-steering too late — the rear wheel climbs the curb. Watch the curb in the near mirror.
• Forcing a short gap — it’s comfortable at 1.5 m+ longer than your car; otherwise split it into moves.

FAQ

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