How to Align the Reference Points for Parallel Parking in Driving Test Part 3?
4 Answers
Here are the step-by-step methods for aligning reference points during parallel parking in Driving Test Part 3: 1. Observe the front one-third of the car hood: Divide the hood into three equal sections. When the right one-third point aligns with the curb line during parking, the right wheels will be precisely 30cm from the curb. 2. Use the hood reinforcement rib as reference: Keep the right reinforcement rib aligned with the curb while moving forward to maintain the 30cm distance. 3. Utilize the windshield wiper notch: When the wiper's notch coincides with the curb line during forward motion, the vehicle maintains exactly 30cm from the curb. Detailed techniques for gear shifting in Driving Test Part 3: 1. Listen: When gear and speed mismatch occurs, obvious vehicle vibration and engine "knocking" sounds indicate shifting is required. 2. Watch: For students with poor vehicle sensitivity who can't perceive vibration intensity or determine shifting timing by sound, observe dashboard gauges for assistance. 3. Three Don'ts: Never look down at the gearshift, avoid skip-shifting, and prevent steering deviation.
I have coached many driving test candidates, and pulling over to the curb requires a step-by-step approach. When the instruction is given, reduce the speed to idle and move slowly. First, align the reference point with the right rearview mirror: maintain a distance of about 30 centimeters between the car body and the roadside white line, roughly the width of a fist, which is ideal. Slowly turn the steering wheel to the right by about half a turn—avoid sharp turns to prevent the car body from tilting. Simultaneously, observe the position of the front door handle; if it starts approaching the curb edge or a marker, the car body is roughly parallel. If you sense any deviation, make slight adjustments to the steering. A common mistake during the test is either the car body touching the line or being too far from the curb, so practice repeatedly in safe zones with marked reference points. Once you develop the habit, your parking position will naturally become precise. Remember to perform the entire process gently—avoid sudden braking, which can lead to point deductions. Before actually pulling over, ensure it’s safe behind you and use the turn signal to indicate your intention. More training will enhance your car sense, leading to a higher pass rate and safer, more reliable driving.
As someone who just passed the third driving test, let me share some insights. During the exam, I used the right rearview mirror to gauge the distance between the car body and the line, which was about 30 centimeters, roughly the width of a palm. I slowly turned the steering wheel about 45 degrees to the right, using the front door handle as a reference point. When it was about to touch the curb, the car body was aligned. During practice, I often simulated parking by drawing lines on the ground and used fixed points like utility poles for more accurate positioning. Nervousness during the exam can lead to mistakes, so I recommend moving at a steady pace and avoiding sudden stops that might stall the engine. For daily parking, always check blind spots to ensure a safe position. Poor distance control is a common reason for losing points, so make frequent adjustments. Repeated parking practice improves hand-eye coordination quickly, and practice makes perfect for better results.
As a long-time driver, I find the practical method for parallel parking is to simply use the right rearview mirror: maintaining a fist-sized gap between the car body and the curb is ideal. Slowly turn the steering wheel to the right within half a turn, observing the rear wheel position to avoid crossing the line. The operation is simple and efficient, similar to test standards but requires steadier movements. For daily parking, ensure rear safety first, then perform smooth actions to develop good habits for automatic alignment. Practice by finding roadside markers and testing your feel more often to naturally improve.
