Which Side to Start First in the Reverse Parking Test?

[RoseLynn]

Reverse parking test starts from the right side. Here is an introduction to reverse parking: Introduction: Reverse parking is a mandatory test item for obtaining a small car driver's license after 2013. It assesses the driver's ability to operate the vehicle in a confined space. Reverse parking is one of the assessment points in the driver's test, which involves maneuvering the vehicle correctly into a garage from both sides while in motion. Methods: There are three most common types of reverse parking. The first is the "non"-shaped reverse parking, commonly seen in large shopping malls. The second is the roadside "one"-shaped reverse parking, also known as parallel parking. The third is the less common diagonal reverse parking. 70% of driving school students find parallel parking more challenging.

[AngelaMarie]

I remember when I was learning to drive, the instructor particularly emphasized starting the reverse parking test from the right side. He said most people find it more natural to turn the steering wheel to the right, so you should first parallel park on the right side of the space, then slowly reverse in. The first step is to drive the car to about one meter beside the parking space and stop, then turn on the indicator light; the second step is to shift into reverse, lightly press the accelerator to control the speed, and align using the rearview mirror; the third step is to make slight adjustments to the steering wheel, avoiding sudden turns. Personally, I think this sequence provides better visibility and helps avoid hitting obstacles. After practicing a lot, I realized the test is designed this way because left-side operations are more prone to errors—the car tends to veer off as soon as you turn the steering wheel. I recommend beginners simulate starting from the right side more often; once you get the hang of it, the test becomes much easier. I also use this technique for regular parking—it’s hassle-free and safe.

[StDamian]

After driving for so many years, parallel parking is a piece of cake for me, but back when I was taking my driving test, instructors always said to start from the right. The reason is simple: under right-side traffic rules, the starting position is closer to the parking space entrance, making it easier to control. The steps are: first, park parallel to the right side, then when reversing, watch the lines to avoid crossing boundaries, and slowly turn the steering wheel to the right. I’ve noticed that most test sites are designed with right-side priority because starting from the left can easily cause the rear of the car to deviate, leading to failure. Once during practice, I tried starting from the left, and the angle ended up being too wide, causing me to hit the line and fail. Now, when teaching friends to drive, I also recommend they stick to starting from the right—fewer mistakes that way. The key is to practice more to get used to the direction and avoid experimenting during the actual test. From a safety perspective, this habit reduces the risk of collisions in blind spots.

[EvanAnn]

When students ask me how to take the reverse parking test, I often say: Just start from the right side. Park parallel to the right position, about half a meter away from the garage; shift into reverse gear and move slowly, adjust the direction by looking at the mirror without being too aggressive. With more practice, you'll find starting from the right is smoother and gives a stronger sense of control. The test standards are set this way because left-side operations are more complex and prone to errors. I've seen students try the left side, only to fail because the wheels crossed the line. I recommend focusing on the right side during practice, as mastering the angle is key.

[OAnnie]

Once during the reverse parking test, I almost failed because I didn't start from the right side. In a hurry, I tried reversing from the left and ended up steering the wrong way, hitting the line. On the second attempt, I strictly followed the right-side approach: parked parallel to the right, then reversed while adjusting the direction slightly by watching the rearview mirror, and succeeded. The lesson is not to randomly change the rules during the test—starting from the right is simpler and more reliable. It's also good to develop this habit in daily driving to avoid accidents. For example, visibility is better on the right side, reducing blind spots. Practicing right-side entry more often during training will help you pass smoothly.

[CamilaAnn]

From a safety perspective, why does the reverse parking test start from the right? Because it's safer and more efficient. Starting from the right provides a better view from the driver's seat, and turning the steering wheel to the right keeps the car stable with less deviation. Common mistakes like sudden steering wheel movements are reduced with a right start. Examiners pay attention to this step during the test, as starting from the left increases the risk of hitting lines and losing points. My personal advice is to practice controlling the right position well and perform slow-motion reversing. Developing this habit in daily driving can enhance overall road safety awareness and prevent accidents.