Parking Rules Guide 2026 | Parallel & Reverse Parking Tips
Master parking regulations and techniques for theory and practical tests
Parking questions appear on every driving theory test, and parking maneuvers are a guaranteed part of practical tests across Europe. Beyond tests, parking skills are used every day, making this essential knowledge for all drivers.
This guide covers where you can and cannot park, how to read parking signs and markings, and step-by-step techniques for parallel parking, bay parking, and parking on hills. We'll also address the specific parking rules that frequently appear on theory examinations.
Where Parking is Prohibited
Knowing where you cannot park is fundamental to your theory test and avoiding fines.
Universal No-Parking Zones:
- On pedestrian crossings and within 5-10 meters of them
- At bus stops and tram stops
- On or near level crossings (railway)
- In front of driveways or garage entrances
- Double yellow/red lines (no stopping)
- On motorways except in emergencies
- Blocking traffic or access
Junction and Corner Rules:
- Within 10 meters of a junction (typically)
- On bends where visibility is restricted
- On the brow of a hill
- At or near the crest of a bridge
- Where you would prevent access
Special Area Restrictions:
- Disabled parking bays (without valid badge)
- Taxi ranks during operating hours
- Loading bays during restricted hours
- Cycle lanes during operating hours
- Clearways (no stopping at any time)
Safety Restrictions:
- Facing against traffic flow
- On the sidewalk/pavement (unless signed)
- Creating a hazard or obstruction
- Where your vehicle obscures signs
Understanding Parking Signs and Markings
Parking signs and road markings work together to show where and when you can park.
Road Marking Colors:
- Yellow single line: Restricted parking (check signs for times)
- Yellow double lines: No parking at any time
- Red single line: No stopping during times shown
- Red double lines: No stopping at any time
- White bay markings: Parking permitted (check for restrictions)
Common Parking Signs:
- Blue P: Parking permitted
- P with times: Time-limited parking
- P with disc: Parking disc required
- No parking symbol (red circle, slash): Parking prohibited
- No stopping symbol: No stopping or parking
Time Restriction Format:
- Mon-Sat 8am-6pm: Restricted during these times only
- At any time: 24/7 restriction
- Numbers may indicate maximum parking duration
- Check BOTH signs if there are multiple
Pay and Display:
- Purchase ticket from machine
- Display clearly on dashboard
- Note maximum stay limits
- Return before ticket expires
Parallel Parking Step-by-Step
Parallel parking is tested in practical exams. This method works reliably.
The Reference Point Method:
- 1Pull up parallel to the front vehicle
- Stop with rear bumpers roughly aligned
- About 0.5-1 meter away from it
- Check mirrors and surroundings
- 1Begin reversing
- Full observation before moving
- Steer full lock towards the curb
- Move slowly, watching surroundings
- 1Check the angle
- When at 45° to curb, straighten wheels
- Continue reversing straight back
- Watch for curb approaching in mirror
- 1Final adjustment
- When close to curb, steer away from it
- Continue until parallel with curb
- Straighten wheels, center in space
Key Success Factors:
- Take your time - speed doesn't score points
- Full observations throughout
- Aim for 30cm from curb (maximum usually 45cm)
- Don't hit the curb
- Leave space for other vehicles to exit
- Final position parallel to curb
Bay Parking Techniques
Bay parking (reverse and forward) is commonly tested in practical examinations.
Reverse Bay Parking:
- 1Position your vehicle
- Drive past the target bay
- Turn slightly away from bays
- Check surroundings thoroughly
- 1Begin reverse
- Observe all around
- Steer towards the bay
- Use mirrors to guide position
- 1Enter the bay
- Aim for center of bay
- Straighten up as you enter
- Use door mirrors to check lines
- 1Final position
- Stop before rear wall/line
- Check you're centered
- Apply handbrake
Forward Bay Parking:
- Easier but offers less visibility when leaving
- Approach at slight angle for tighter turn
- Center yourself using wing mirrors
- Easier entry, harder exit
Tips for Both:
- Mirrors are essential - use them constantly
- Slight corrections are fine and expected
- Don't cross the lines
- Leave equal space on both sides
- Practice in empty car parks
Parking on Hills
Hill parking has specific rules about wheel position that are tested in theory exams.
Parking Facing Uphill:
- Turn wheels AWAY from the curb
- If vehicle rolls back, wheels hit curb and stop it
- Apply handbrake firmly
- Leave in 1st gear (manual) or P (automatic)
Parking Facing Downhill:
- Turn wheels TOWARDS the curb
- If vehicle rolls forward, wheels hit curb
- Apply handbrake firmly
- Leave in reverse (manual) or P (automatic)
No Curb Present:
- Always turn wheels towards edge of road
- Vehicle will roll off road if it moves
- Avoid parking on steep hills if possible
Additional Hill Safety:
- Always use handbrake
- Consider wheel chocks for heavy vehicles
- Never leave vehicle in neutral
- Be extra careful in icy conditions
- Ensure handbrake is properly adjusted
Memory Aid:
- Uphill = Up and away (wheels turn up, away from curb)
- Downhill = Down to curb (wheels turn down, towards curb)
- No curb = Always towards edge
Common Parking Mistakes to Avoid
These parking errors can fail your practical test or result in fines.
Practical Test Failures:
- Mounting the curb
- Finishing too far from curb (over 45cm)
- Poor observation during maneuver
- Taking excessive time or attempts
- Ending up on wrong side of road
- Touching other vehicles
- Finishing at severe angle
Theory Test Mistakes:
- Not knowing distance rules from junctions
- Confusing parking vs stopping restrictions
- Misreading parking sign times
- Wrong wheel position for hill parking
- Not knowing disabled bay rules
Real-World Parking Errors:
- Parking too close to other vehicles
- Blocking driveways
- Ignoring time limits on pay parking
- Parking on wrong side of road
- Leaving insufficient space for doors
- Not checking for motorcycles before opening door
Safety Tips:
- Always look before opening your door
- Check for cyclists passing
- Ensure vehicle is fully stopped before leaving
- Double-check handbrake
- Lock your vehicle
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1How far from the curb should I park?
You should park as close to the curb as reasonably possible, typically within 30cm (about one foot). In practical tests, more than 45cm from the curb may be marked as a fault. Being parallel to the curb is just as important as distance.
Q2Can I park on the pavement/sidewalk?
In most European countries, parking on the pavement is prohibited unless specifically signed as allowed. It obstructs pedestrians, especially those with wheelchairs, strollers, or visual impairments. Check local regulations as rules vary.
Q3How far from a junction should I park?
Typically, you should not park within 10 meters of a junction. This ensures visibility for all road users. Some countries have different distances, and signs may indicate specific restrictions. When in doubt, park further away.
Q4Can I park facing against the traffic flow?
Generally, no. Parking against the flow of traffic is prohibited in most countries because it requires dangerous maneuvers to exit, and your vehicle lights don't reflect properly for other drivers at night. Always park in the direction of traffic.
Test Your Parking Knowledge
Practice parking rules and regulations with our theory test questions.
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