Parking a car correctly involves a systematic approach: choose an appropriate spot, signal your intention, position your vehicle correctly, and straighten the wheels. For most standard perpendicular parking spaces, the key is to turn the steering wheel when your side mirror aligns with the first line of the space you're entering. Always check your mirrors and blind spots for pedestrians and other vehicles before and during the maneuver.
The process differs slightly depending on the parking space type. For perpendicular parking (the most common type), approach the space slowly and at a wide angle. When your front bumper is past the rear bumper of the car next to your target space, begin turning the steering wheel fully. For angle parking, you simply drive forward into the space, as the angled design provides a wider entry path. The most challenging for many is parallel parking. The standard technique is to pull up parallel to the car in front of the empty space, about two feet away. Reverse slowly until your rear bumper aligns with the other car's rear bumper, then turn the steering wheel sharply towards the curb. When you see the curb in your side mirror at a 45-degree angle, straighten the wheel to slide in.
| Common Parking Space Dimensions (USA) | Minimum Width | Minimum Length | Typical Use |
|---|
| Standard Perpendicular/Angle | 8.5 feet | 18 feet | Most shopping centers |
| Compact Car Space | 8.0 feet | 16 feet | Designated areas |
| Accessible (ADA Compliant) | 12.0 feet | 18 feet | Plus access aisle |
| Parallel Parking Space | 8.0 feet | 22 feet | Street parking |
After entering the space, ensure your car is centered. A good tip is to look at the lines on the ground in your side mirrors; you should see roughly the same amount of space on each side. Finally, shift into Park (for automatic transmission), engage the parking brake, and turn off the engine. Before exiting, do a "Dutch Reach"—using your far hand to open the door—which naturally twists your body to check for oncoming cyclists or traffic.
