Where is the starting line for reverse parking?
4 Answers
The starting line for reverse parking is a yellow line. Below are detailed instructions for reverse parking techniques: 1. Identify the starting point: Taking right-side reverse parking as an example, the vehicle should maintain a distance of 1.2-1.8 meters from the left line at the starting position, with the steering wheels aligned straight and the vehicle body parallel to the left line. When reversing, use the lower edge of the left rearview mirror as a reference. When the two align, turn the steering wheel fully to the right and continue reversing. 2. Control the corner point: Observe the right rearview mirror. When the corner point of the parking space is visible, pay attention to the changing distance between the corner point and the vehicle body. When the distance is less than 30 centimeters, turn the steering wheel back halfway and continue reversing. Once the vehicle body enters the parking space and aligns parallel with the parking lines, turn the steering wheel back one full turn. If the distance is not less than 30 centimeters, do not turn the steering wheel back and continue reversing until the vehicle body is parallel with the parking lines, then turn the steering wheel back one and a half turns at once. 3. Align the stopping point: The stopping point is the parking spot after entering the parking space. The reference method is the same as for the starting point. When the lower edge of the left mirror aligns with the shoulder line of the parking space, stop the vehicle.
When I first started learning to drive, the instructor emphasized the importance of the starting line for reverse parking. It's usually a few meters in front of the parking space, marked by a yellow horizontal line or painted on the ground. The vehicle needs to be positioned just right when reaching that point: ideally, the front wheels or the edge of the rearview mirror should align with the line. This ensures enough space to maneuver while reversing, avoiding hitting the boundary line or a pole right from the start. I remember during my first practice, I often misaligned—either too close, causing delayed steering and crossing the line, or too far, leaving insufficient space and resulting in a crooked car. Later, I figured out the trick: slowly drive to the designated point, shift into reverse, and use the left and right rearview mirrors to assist in positioning. Finding the correct starting point is crucial—it makes the parking angle smoother, saves time, and prevents minor scrapes. During the test, the examiner will specify the exact location, and with enough practice, it becomes second nature.
After driving for over a decade, I'm extremely familiar with the position of the reverse parking starting line. Basically, there's a clearly marked line in front of each parking space where you position your vehicle. Typically, you want your left front wheel to either touch the line or align with the center. While testing locations may vary, the principle remains the same: if you can't accurately locate the starting point, your reverse parking will likely go off course—like having your wheels cross the boundary line or your trunk getting too close to the wall. I've seen novice friends make this mistake and end up scraping adjacent cars. The key lies in observation: use reference markers below the rear windshield to gauge the line's position. During practice, find an open space to draw a simulated line for muscle memory—using chalk or traffic cones to mark the starting point. Remember, with the correct starting position, your steering timing becomes smoother, reducing adjustments and improving efficiency. For safety, proper positioning is the first step to avoiding accidents.
We experienced drivers emphasize caution when backing into a parking space. The starting line is positioned in front of the parking spot with clear markings. Drive your car forward until the side aligns with the inner edge of the line—neither too far nor too close. The traditional standard method was to have the front wheel center on the line, ensuring just enough space when reversing. If not aligned properly, the car body may hit the corner of the garage door or cross the line, resulting in point deductions. I always remind younger drivers: take your time to position correctly, then check the dashboard light signals for confirmation. The test site will have obvious indicators like reflective markers. The key is to observe more and rush less.
