Is there a time limit for the reverse parking item in Subject 2 of the driving test?
3 Answers
In Subject 2 of the driving test, the reverse parking item has a time limit, with a completion time of 210 seconds. Generally, if you take the test at the speed of half-clutch engagement, you can complete it in about 170 seconds. Although slowing down can make alignment more precise, you should not be too slow throughout the test, as it may easily lead to exceeding the time limit. When initially entering the test area to adjust the distance between the parking space and the side line to 30-50 cm, you can adjust at the speed of half-clutch engagement. When approaching the stop line and preparing to reverse into the parking space, gently press the clutch to slow down for alignment. After alignment, slightly lift the clutch because once the steering wheel is turned, the vehicle will move at the predetermined angle, so speed does not matter much. The key is to press the clutch when preparing to turn the steering wheel or align, ensuring early deceleration. Simply slowing down during alignment will help avoid exceeding the time limit. Reverse parking is divided into left-side and right-side parking. There are stop lines on both sides of the parking space. The 210-second countdown starts when the vehicle enters the test area and the front wheel crosses the left parking space stop line. After entering the test area, a voice announcement will say "Start reverse parking," and the candidate must complete the parking process within 210 seconds. The timing ends only when the rear wheel crosses the right parking space stop line.
When I was taking the second driving test, the reverse parking (garage parking) task did have a time limit, usually requiring completion within 210 seconds, which is three and a half minutes, as clearly stated in the exam rules. I remember being extremely nervous during my first attempt, worrying about losing points for exceeding the time limit, and ended up failing to complete it. Looking back now, there was really no need to be so tense—the key is learning to control your speed: reverse slowly, make a few adjustments when aligning with the reference points, and avoid panicking. If the time runs out during the test, the system will automatically mark it as a failure, so it's important to practice simulating the reverse parking process during training and time yourself to see if you can meet the requirement. Among all the tasks in the second driving test, reverse parking is the one most likely to trip you up on timing—examiners use this to test your smooth operation. My advice is to start with the basics during training: first practice parking within 30 seconds, then gradually increase the difficulty, and you’ll naturally get the timing right.
From my teaching experience, the parallel parking exercise in Subject 2 has a time limit, usually set at 210 seconds, which is roughly three minutes. This rule isn't arbitrary—it tests the balance between speed and precision: going too fast risks hitting the lines, while being too slow affects overall progress. During the actual operation, you need to proceed step by step: first align the car with the entry point properly without abruptly turning the steering wheel; then reverse steadily, making no more than one or two steering adjustments midway. If time runs out while you're still dawdling, it's an immediate 100-point deduction and you fail. I recommend that candidates simulate test scenarios at the driving school practice area beforehand, with instructors timing and guiding them, so familiarity with the rules can prevent nervous mistakes. Remember, the test isn't just about skills—it also evaluates your understanding and control of the regulations.
