Whether you are an experienced driver or a rookie behind the wheel, parallel parking can present a challenge. Follow AAA Driver Training’s step-by step guide and you’ll be parallel parking perfectly.

STEP 1

Activate right directional 100 feet before parked vehicle. Stop vehicle mirror to mirror, 2-3’ away from parked vehicle. For vehicles different in length, the rear bumpers should be even.

STEP 2

Immediately shift to reverse and turn the steering wheel one complete turn to the right.

STEP 3

Head check over your left shoulder. When safe, back up slowly while checking over right shoulder looking through rear window, right mirror, and front right corner of vehicle. Continue until the right mirror is even with the parked car’s left taillight or bumper.

STEP 4

Turn wheel one complete turn left until your wheels are straight.

STEP 5

Head check over your left shoulder again. When safe, back up slowly while checking over right shoulder looking through rear window, right mirror, and front right corner of vehicle. Continue until the right mirror is even with the right taillight (or bumper).

STEP 6

Turn wheel one complete turn left.

STEP 7

Check behind and when safe, continue to back up slowly until the vehicle is parallel with the curb. Stop. Do not hit the curb.

STEP 8

Shift to drive. Turn wheel one turn to the right.

STEP 9

Pull forward until the bottom of the vehicle in front starts disappearing. Stop and shift to park. You are done parallel parking!

Looking for driver training instruction you can count on? Turn to AAA’s expert instructors to make sure you’re ready for the road. Sign up today. 

AAA Driver Training