How to Parallel Park for Your Road Test

Parallel parking is the maneuver that worries new drivers the most. Broken into steps, it is far easier than it looks.

1. Pull up even with the car in front of the space, about two feet out.
2. Reverse slowly while turning the wheel fully toward the curb.
3. When your car is at about 45 degrees, straighten the wheel and keep backing.
4. Turn the wheel away from the curb to bring the front in.
5. Straighten up and adjust until you are parallel and within a foot of the curb.

Practice it in a quiet spot until it becomes muscle memory. On test day, go slow - examiners care far more about control and safety than speed.