Which line should you align with when entering reverse parking?
3 Answers
When performing reverse parking, you should align with the middle between the second and third lines from left to right. Here is some relevant information: 1. Reverse parking: Reverse parking has been a mandatory test item for obtaining a small car driver's license since 2013. It assesses the driver's ability to operate the vehicle in a confined space and is a key evaluation point in the driver's test, requiring the vehicle to be correctly reversed into the garage from both sides while in motion. 2. Evaluation criteria: Failure to follow the prescribed route or sequence results in disqualification; the vehicle body touching the line or failing to park properly results in disqualification; exceeding 210 seconds to complete the reverse parking results in disqualification; stopping midway deducts 5 points each time.
Having been a driving instructor for so many years, I can tell you that when entering the parking space during reverse parking, the most crucial point is aligning with the right boundary line of the garage or the reference line on the ground. It's best to keep the right side of the car about 30 centimeters away from the line. Why is aligning with the line so important? Because it helps you see in the rearview mirror whether the position is parallel, avoiding crossing the line or deviating. A common mistake beginners make is not aligning properly, resulting in struggling to park and easily scraping against poles or walls. I advise students to first drive the car to a spot not far from the edge of the parking space and stop, observing clearly where the line is; then slowly reverse, making slight adjustments to the steering wheel as needed. Pay extra attention to this point during practice, and once you're skilled, parking will become much smoother. Safety always comes first—don't take risks just to be fast.
Having driven for decades, one of my most proficient skills is parallel parking. My personal habit is to align the car with the extended line of the garage corner or a virtual marker on the ground, roughly positioning the right front of the car towards that line when entering. This way, during the reverse, a slight turn of the steering wheel ensures accurate parking; if misaligned, it's easy to hit the corners or go out of bounds. Every time I reverse, I combine the use of rearview mirrors and parking sensors for double insurance to minimize mistakes. I recommend practicing several times, simulating in an open space, and getting used to aligning with the line—it will become natural and smooth with habit. Remember to reverse slowly and not rush; this tip works for both beginners and experienced drivers.
