Parallel Park

You may have heard that parallel parking is difficult. In fact, some people say they prefer the 3 point turn as it's easier. One of the myths about the restricted licence test is that you have to park in a tight space between two cars. This isn't the case.

Follow the steps below and you will see that parallel parking can be easy.

1. Aim yourself to line up parallel alongside the car about a car door width away.

2. Don't forget to signal left before you stop.

3. Stop slightly ahead of the car. This makes it easier to start reversing.

4. Check mirrors and blind spots before reversing. Reverse back until the back wheel or seat of your car is level with the back end of the other car.

5. Steer briskly to the left (about two good turns of the wheel). You don't need hard lock on. Aim for a two o clock position or 45 degree angle then steer right to straighten up your wheels. Don't forget to look through the rear window at this point to see what's behind.

6.When the front end of your car is clearing the back end of the other car then steer right. You will need more steering this time and maybe even hard lock.

7. Try and judge the kerb in your nearside mirror at this point.

8. When the front of your car is into the kerb steer briskly to the left to straighten your wheels. This makes it easier to pull forward.

9. Reverse back straight a little.

10. Pull forward into a position where you can move off again without getting blocked in.

You've finished!! Congratulate yourself on a good job.