Parallel Parking
Parallel Parking tests the maneuver itself and the parking rules around it: positioning, signaling, curb distance, wheel direction, and awareness of traffic. The NY road test includes parallel parking, and permit questions ask about safe parking near curbs and intersections.
Core rules
- Approach the space parallel to the front vehicle, about two to three feet away. Signal, check mirrors and blind spot, and stop when your rear bumper aligns with the other vehicle's rear bumper.
- Back slowly while turning the wheel toward the curb. Straighten as you enter, then turn away from the curb to bring the front in. Use reference points and check all around; do not rely only on mirrors.
- Finish within 12 inches of the curb, with wheels straight unless parked on a hill. Set the parking brake and shift to Park or Neutral with the brake set.
- On a downhill park with a curb, turn the front wheels toward the curb. On an uphill park with a curb, turn them away from the curb so the tire can catch the curb if the vehicle rolls. On an uphill park without a curb, turn wheels toward the edge of the road.
- Leave enough space for traffic. Before opening your door, check for cyclists and passing vehicles.
- Avoid parking within 15 feet of a fire hydrant, within 20 feet of a crosswalk, or where signs prohibit it.
Worked example
You parallel park facing downhill next to a curb. Turn the front wheels toward the curb before setting the brake. If the vehicle rolls forward, the front tire will press against the curb rather than roll into traffic. Finish within 12 inches and check the door zone before opening.
Traps that cost marks
Finishing more than 12 inches from the curb, hitting the curb, forgetting the turn signal, and opening a door without checking for cyclists. Also do not stop in a crosswalk or too close to a hydrant while preparing to park.