Parallel parking is one of the most challenging aspects of driving lessons. However, there isn’t much to be nervous about as this skill can be mastered with a few hours of practice.

Here is brief instructional guide to help you grasp the basics of parallel parking:

1. Find The Perfect Spot

Circle around the parking block until you find the perfect spot. Ideally, an empty parking lot with plenty of space would be great to maneuver the car easily.

However, even if you have the standard 15 feet between 2 cars, you can follow the tips mentioned below to safely fit your car in the tight space.

2. Check Your Rearview Mirror

Once you spot your parking space, check the rearview mirror and gently start rolling towards the free space.

Always signal to indicate your intention to turn. This will also help warn other drivers on the road and they will change lanes to drive around you.

3. Line Up Your Vehicle and Check Your Surroundings

Slowly drive up in front of the parking space and line your car with the vehicle parked in front of your desired spot.

Don’t get too close to the vehicles parked in front and at the back, maintain a distance of at least 3 feet at the front and at the back. Align your car such that you stand parallel to the parked car.

Before you begin reversing your car, use your rearview and side view mirrors to check your blind spots. This will prevent you from bumping into any pedestrian or motorist.

4. Reverse And Release The Breaks

Look over your shoulder and assess the gap between the cars. Put your car in reverse and release the brakes. Start backing up slowly to make a smooth turn.

5. Turn The Steering Wheel

Back up until you see the back bumper of the car in front of you. Then, slowly turn your wheel all the way to the right (side of the road, depending on your parking space).

6. Reverse At A 45-Degree Angle

Reverse and maneuver your car at a 45-degree angle. Now, turn your wheel all the way to the left (opposite to the parking curb) and continue inching backwards.

7. Keep Backing Up

Look around you to ensure you won’t hit or scrape the vehicles parked around. Keep reversing and slowly straighten your steering wheel until you’re in your designated spot.

8. Pull Forward And Park

As soon as you are parallel to the sidewalk and the roadside, adjust the car so that there is equal space between both the cars parked at the front and back.

Pull the brakes and straighten the tires. Congratulations, you have successfully mastered the art of parallel parking!

9. Learn To Drive

Enroll in a driving class and learn how to parallel park.

Contact our driving school in Arizona and get ready for the ultimate learning experience with competent and skilled instructors.

We offer dedicated driving lessons for beginners in Mesa, Arrowhead, and Glendale, AZ.

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