How long can you park inside the garage during reverse parking?
3 Answers
Examinees must complete the entire set of procedures for reversing and exiting the garage within 210 seconds. Parking midway is not allowed, and any instances of stopping midway or exceeding the time limit will result in disqualification. Below are the relevant details: Methods of reverse parking: The first is the non-character style reverse parking, commonly seen in various large shopping malls. The second is the roadside linear reverse parking, often referred to as parallel parking. The third is the less common diagonal reverse parking. Rules for Section 2 of the driving test: In the original garage parking, single-plank bridge, and right-angle turn tests, stopping midway has been adjusted from disqualification to "a deduction of 5 points each time."
I've been driving for many years, and the act of reversing into a parking space is inherently a quick process, usually taking only a few seconds to a dozen seconds—just enough to adjust the position and park straight. It's not considered a parking state at all. Once the car is completely parked in the space, the normal parking duration applies. Rules vary significantly by location: for example, roadside parking zones might offer 15 or 30 minutes of free parking, with fines for overstaying; large shopping mall parking lots usually provide 1-2 hours of free parking, but it's best to check the signs at the entrance; as for a private garage, you can park as long as you like. When parking in the city, I always look around for signs first to avoid stopping in yellow no-parking zones or loading areas, where even a minute might not be allowed. With more driving experience, you learn that reversing into a space shouldn’t be delayed—get in and out quickly to avoid blocking others or causing trouble.
I once helped a friend manage a parking lot for a while. During the reverse parking process, you really can't stop for too long—at most about half a minute—because this maneuver is in motion. Stopping for too long might be considered obstruction. Once the car is completely parked, the time limit depends on the specific location. For example, in public parking garages, the sign at the entrance usually states that ordinary cars can park for free for 30 minutes, after which charges start. Private residential areas or company parking spaces might be more lenient, sometimes even without time limits. My advice is to turn off the engine and lock the car immediately after parking, avoiding lingering inside for too long. I remember one time when a driver chatted after reversing, missed the free parking window, and got a ticket. For safety, stay focused while reversing—don’t pause too long to think, as it might lead to a rear-end collision.
