
White line parking spaces are paid parking spaces, while yellow line parking spaces are designated parking spaces. Parking spaces are divided into the following 4 types based on color: Yellow parking spaces: Exclusive parking spaces. Common yellow designated parking spaces include those for police use, epidemic prevention support, new energy vehicles, and emergency rescue vehicles. These spaces are marked with relevant text in both the parking signs and markings, and they are also free parking spaces. Other public vehicles should not occupy them. White parking spaces: Paid parking spaces, currently the most common type of parking spaces, can be seen on almost every road. Among them, solid white lines indicate no time restrictions for parking, while dashed white lines indicate time restrictions, with specific times marked on the parking space. Blue parking spaces: Free parking spaces, but with time restrictions. The free parking time periods are indicated on the road surface or on signs. Green parking spaces: Only available in a few cities, such as Nanning, these are limited-time free parking spaces designed to meet short-term parking needs, such as shopping or running errands.

After years of driving, I've noticed that white parking spaces are usually public standard spots, available for anyone to use, offering convenience and freedom. Yellow parking spaces, however, come with special restrictions, such as temporary parking zones or being reserved for specific vehicles, like bus stops or roadside loading areas. Once, I was fined 200 yuan for parking on a yellow line in the city, which made me realize these designs are meant to ensure smooth traffic flow and safety. Always check the color and surrounding signs before parking to avoid violations. Rules vary by location—yellow lines are more common on urban main roads, while white lines dominate in rural areas. Developing the habit of checking can save you trouble, especially during peak parking times like holidays. Now, whenever I visit a new place, I first check the rules on my phone app to avoid repeating past mistakes.

The difference between yellow and white parking spaces mainly lies in their usage: white-lined spaces are generally free for public use, while yellow lines indicate restrictions, such as short-term parking only or prohibition for regular vehicles. From my perspective, this relates to safety, as yellow lines are often placed near fire lanes or school entrances to prevent blocking emergency routes. Ignoring these rules can result in fines of several hundred yuan and may even cause accidents. When driving, I always pay attention to these details, and combining color with signs provides more accurate guidance. Regulations may vary in different cities; for example, yellow lines in tourist areas might be stricter. I recommend everyone familiarize themselves with local traffic rules to protect their own and others' travel safety, taking a few seconds to assess before parking each time.

After learning to drive, the instructor taught that white parking spaces are regular parking spots, while yellow-lined parking spaces have special restrictions, such as short-term parking or no parking allowed. When I first started driving, I parked in a yellow-lined area and was warned. Later, I learned that yellow lines might be for temporary pick-up/drop-off or designated zones, while parking in white-lined areas is much easier. Before parking, I always check for additional signs to ensure I don’t overstay. This knowledge is crucial for beginners to avoid towing or fines.


