Parallel parking is one of the most feared manoeuvres for new drivers. Whether you’re preparing for your driving test or facing it daily on busy streets, mastering parallel parking is essential. Fortunately, with the right techniques and enough practice, it becomes second nature.
At Green and Gold Driving School, we help students across Blacktown, Castle Hill, Mount Druitt, and Quakers Hill learn how to park like a pro — without the stress.
What is Parallel Parking?
Parallel parking, also known as reverse parallel parking, involves parking your car in line with other parked vehicles, usually on the side of the road. The car should be parallel to the curb and within 30–40 cm of it, depending on your state regulations.
Why Do So Many Learners Struggle With Parallel Parking?
Many student drivers find parallel parking difficult because it requires judgement of distance, timing, and spatial awareness. A common reason for test failure is nerves — not the actual skill level. That’s why our driving instructors in Blacktown focus on building confidence alongside technique.
Step-by-Step Guide to Mastering Parallel Parking
Use your indicators.
Always indicate before beginning your parallel parking. This notifies other drivers that you are planning to park and helps avoid confusion or accidents.
Check mirrors: IRVM and ORVM.
Use your inside rear-view mirror (IRVM) and outside rear-view mirrors (ORVMs) effectively. These are vital for spotting obstacles and blind spots while reversing.
Reverse slowly.
Never rush the process. Reverse gradually and adjust your steering based on your car’s position. Slow, calculated moves help avoid hitting other cars or the curb.
Control the steering wheel.
Maintain a firm but smooth grip. Use the “9 and 3 o’clock” position on the steering wheel and rotate steadily while keeping an eye on your surroundings.
Know your car’s size.
Understand how much space your vehicle occupies. This helps in gauging whether a parking spot is suitable. Practice observing your car’s overhang and distance from objects.
Settle and adjust position.
After parking, leave enough room in front and back so you and others can exit easily. If you need to adjust, go forward or backward slightly — it’s okay.
Tips for Effective Practice
Start in a quiet environment.
Find an empty parking lot or quiet street to practise parallel parking. Use cones or markers to simulate real parked cars.
Avoid high-traffic areas initially.
Don’t jump onto busy roads immediately. Once you’re comfortable, gradually try your skills in actual parking scenarios.
Ask for feedback.
Work with a qualified instructor from a reputed driving school in Castle Hill or Mount Druitt. A patient and skilled instructor will correct mistakes and guide you efficiently.
Watch Out For Parking Challenges
Even if you’ve mastered the basics, always check:
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Are the cars in front and behind parked within their lines?
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Is the space large enough for your car?
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Are you obstructing traffic while attempting the manoeuvre?
If in doubt, don’t hesitate to try another spot — safety first.
Learn with the Best in Your Area
At Green and Gold Driving School, we offer professional driving lessons in:
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Blacktown
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Castle Hill
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Mount Druitt
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Quakers Hill
Our team of expert instructors will help you not just pass your driving test but become a confident driver for life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is parallel parking mandatory in driving tests?
Yes, parallel parking is often a required component in most Australian driving tests, including in NSW.
What if I touch the curb while parallel parking during my test?
Touching the curb lightly may not result in failure, but hitting it forcefully or mounting the curb can. Always aim for a smooth park within 30–40 cm of the curb.
How long does it take to learn parallel parking?
With proper instruction and practice, most learners master parallel parking in a few lessons.
Can I practise parallel parking without an instructor?
Yes, but having a certified instructor ensures that you receive expert guidance and real-time corrections.
Ready to Master Parallel Parking?
Join Green and Gold Driving School — the trusted name in driving lessons across Blacktown, Castle Hill, Mount Druitt, and Quakers Hill.
