how wide 2 car driveway

[McJoanna]

A standard two-car driveway should be at least 18 to 20 feet wide. This width is the industry standard recommended by building codes like the International Residential Code (IRC) because it provides enough space for two average-sized vehicles (like sedans or midsize SUVs) to park side-by-side comfortably, with adequate room to open the doors without dinging each other.

While 18 feet is the common minimum, going wider to 22 or 24 feet is a highly recommended investment. This extra space makes a significant difference in daily use, especially if your household has larger vehicles like full-size pickup trucks or SUVs. It also provides a safe buffer for getting in and out of cars and for walking between them.

Here’s a quick comparison of how driveway width impacts usability with different vehicle types:

Vehicle Scenario	Minimum Recommended Width	Practical Experience
Two Compact Cars (e.g., Honda Civic)	16 feet	Tight but possible; door opening requires caution.
Two Midsize Sedans/SUVs (e.g., Toyota Camry, Honda CR-V)	18-20 feet	Standard comfortable width; easy entry and exit.
One Full-Size Truck + One Midsize SUV (e.g., Ford F-150)	22-24 feet	Ideal for larger vehicles; prevents door dings.
Two Full-Size SUVs (e.g., Chevrolet Suburban)	24+ feet	Necessary for comfortable use with oversized vehicles.

Other factors to consider are the driveway's length and the presence of a turnaround area. A longer driveway or one with a circular turnaround makes entering and exiting much easier, reducing the need for tight maneuvers. When planning, always check with your local building department, as codes can vary by municipality. Ultimately, erring on the side of a wider driveway greatly enhances convenience and safety.

[NoraLynn]

From my experience, 20 feet is the sweet spot. We built ours at 18 feet with two sedans, and it was always a squeeze. When we upgraded to an SUV, it became a constant game of "don't hit the other car" when getting the kids out. If you're pouring new concrete, just add those extra two feet. You'll thank yourself later for the peace of mind and avoiding costly door repairs.

[DiMaverick]

Think beyond just the cars. You need space to walk between them, unload groceries, and maybe even get a stroller past. A 20-foot width is a good target. Also, consider the slope and the surface material. A steep, narrow driveway can be tricky in icy weather. Asphalt might be more affordable than concrete, but it requires more maintenance over the years. It's about the whole package, not just the measurement.

[SanNorah]

I always tell my clients to measure their actual vehicles. Park your two widest cars side-by-side in the street, leave about 3 feet of space between them, and then add 2-3 feet on each outside for walking space. That's your ideal width. It often comes out closer to 22 or 24 feet. Don't just go by the code minimum; build for how you actually live. It's cheaper to pour a wider slab now than to rebuild it later.