Is 30 cm required for parallel parking?
5 Answers
Parallel parking requires a 30 cm distance to avoid point deductions. Below is relevant information about parallel parking: 1. Introduction: Parallel parking is part of the second subject in the driver's license test. Parallel parking is becoming increasingly common in urban areas, especially when parking spaces in regular parking lots are in short supply. Many places have designated parking spaces along the sides of streets, creating "parallel parking spots." 2. Precautions for parallel parking: Adjust the left and right rearview mirrors. The left rearview mirror should be lowered as much as possible to see the left rear wheel, while the right rearview mirror should allow visibility of the car body. The interior rearview mirror should be adjusted so that the middle of the rear windshield is visible when looking up.
I remember when teaching driving, parallel parking indeed has specific distance requirements, usually around 30 centimeters in driving test standards. For example, points will be deducted if the distance is too close or too far. This distance is to avoid scraping roadside objects, especially on narrow roads to prevent the wheels from rubbing against the curb. During practice, you can align the roadside line in the rearview mirror with the car body, or use in-car sensors for assistance. However, in actual driving, beginners often misjudge due to nervousness. My suggestion is to practice more in open spaces to simulate parking and familiarize yourself with the vehicle's turning radius, which will help you gradually master the skill. Don't forget to check the tire condition, as excessive wear can affect the accuracy of parking distance. Regular maintenance is key to meeting the standards.
From a safety perspective, maintaining a 30 cm distance when parallel parking is essential. Parking too close risks scratching the wheel rims or tires, while parking too far may encroach on other lanes and cause accidents. Over years of driving, I've seen many beginners neglect this in crowded streets, leading to minor scrapes. In practice, I use curb gaps or road markings as references to keep the car body roughly one foot parallel. Extra caution and buffer space are needed during rain or snow. For daily parking, don't rely solely on automated systems—manual practice builds reliable habits. Cultivating good driving practices is paramount, as safety should always come first.
As someone who often helps others with car repairs, when I hear car owners talk about the 30 cm requirement for parallel parking, I believe the key is to observe the rearview mirrors more. Don't drive too straight when parking; after turning the wheel, check the roadside alignment with the wheel position—about one foot is correct. Without assistive devices, adjusting the seat height can help improve visibility. In actual driving, there's no need to rigidly stick to exact measurements. Practicing a few times will help develop a feel for it. The key is to ensure smooth movements to prevent scraping the side of the car.
When I first started learning to drive, I was particularly nervous about parallel parking, always worried about being too far or too close to the curb. The instructor emphasized the 30 cm benchmark, so I practiced using the gaps in the roadside stones as markers. Don't get discouraged by mistakes—minor deviations are normal. For everyday parking, be flexible based on road conditions; you can be a bit more lenient in safe areas. Exchange tips with fellow drivers and gradually develop instinctive judgment. With practice making perfect, you'll no longer fear this distance issue.
