What is the Scoring Criteria for Parallel Parking?
3 Answers
Here is a detailed introduction to the scoring criteria for parallel parking: 1. Vehicle out of bounds: If the vehicle crosses the line after stopping in the parking space, it is considered a failure. 2. Incorrect use of turn signals: Failing to use or incorrectly using turn signals when exiting the parking space results in a 10-point deduction. 3. Time limit exceeded: If the task completion time exceeds 90 seconds, it is considered a failure. 4. Vehicle body touching the line: If the vehicle body touches the boundary line of the parking space while moving, a 10-point deduction per occurrence applies. 5. Wheels crossing the line: If the wheels touch or cross the lane boundary line while moving, a 10-point deduction per occurrence applies. 6. Midway stop: Stopping for more than 2 seconds during the process results in a 5-point deduction per occurrence.
I learned from my driving school instructor that the scoring criteria for parallel parking are quite strict. The distance between the car and the curb is crucial—it must not exceed 50 centimeters or be less than 30 centimeters. Even a slight deviation can result in point deductions or even failing the test. Additionally, the turn signal must be activated a few seconds in advance, as the examiner pays close attention to this detail. During the test, touching the curb line means an immediate failure, and hitting another car or obstacle is even worse. I remember one time I was so nervous that I didn’t park straight, and my front and rear wheels were slightly out of alignment, costing me 10 points—luckily, I didn’t fail. During practice, we used cones to simulate the curb, and it took several attempts to master the angle and control the speed, as reversing too quickly could easily cause the car to slide out of line. The standard also requires parking in one go without too many adjustments; taking too long results in point deductions, testing the driver’s control skills and safety awareness. Once you develop good habits, daily parking becomes much easier.
From years of driving experience, I evaluate parallel parking from a safety perspective, with the core principle being to avoid collisions. The standard requires maintaining at least 30cm clearance to prevent door dings against walls or neighboring cars - touching the line means instant failure as it risks scraping pedestrians. During tests, turn signals must activate to alert following traffic while mirrors continuously monitor surroundings. I've seen novices misalign and hit curbs, which is genuinely hazardous. Practice in empty parking spaces by repeatedly simulating reference points like aligning with utility poles until you can park smoothly within 30 seconds without panic. Proper parking alignment minimizes accident risks, though excessive spacing also indicates poor technique and may disrupt traffic flow.
