Parallel parking is one of those driving manoeuvres that can make even confident drivers break into a sweat. Whether you’re tackling it for the first time during your driving lessons or brushing up before your test, this step-by-step guide will help you park like a pro on Irish roads.
Who This Is For
This guide is for learner drivers in Ireland preparing for their driving test, recent licence holders wanting to build confidence, and anyone who finds parallel parking a bit daunting. If you’re learning with a driving instructor or practicing with a sponsor, these tips will complement your lessons perfectly.
Why Parallel Parking Matters in Ireland
On narrow Irish streets, especially in towns and cities, parallel parking is often the only option. It’s also a required manoeuvre in the RSA driving test. Getting it right not only helps you pass your test but also makes everyday driving much easier.
Step-by-Step Parallel Parking Guide
Follow these steps slowly and carefully. It’s better to take your time than rush and misjudge the space.
Step 1: Find a Suitable Space
Look for a gap that’s at least one and a half times the length of your car. Signal early to show your intention to park.
Step 2: Position Your Car
Pull up alongside the car in front of the space, keeping about 1 metre distance. Align your rear bumper with theirs.
Step 3: Reverse and Turn
Check your mirrors and blind spot. Reverse slowly while turning the steering wheel fully towards the kerb.
Step 4: Straighten Up
When your front seat is in line with the other car’s rear bumper, start turning the wheel the opposite way to straighten your wheels.
Step 5: Final Adjustments
Creep forward or reverse slightly to centre your car between the two vehicles. Leave enough space front and back to pull out safely.
Step 6: Check Your Position
Make sure you’re not too close to the kerb or sticking out into the road. Adjust if needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not signalling early: Always signal before you start the manoeuvre.
- Turning too late or too soon: Timing your steering is key—practice makes perfect.
- Ignoring blind spots: Always check before reversing.
- Getting too close to the car behind: Leave enough room to pull out safely.
What to Expect in a Lesson
During a driving lesson, your instructor will guide you through parallel parking step by step, often using reference points on your own car to help you judge distances. They’ll also explain how to correct mistakes and build your confidence.
Manual vs Automatic: Does It Matter?
Parallel parking technique is the same whether you’re driving manual or automatic. However, in a manual car, you’ll need to coordinate clutch control and accelerator while steering. In an automatic, you can focus more on observation and positioning.
| Aspect | Manual | Automatic |
|---|---|---|
| Clutch control | Required | Not needed |
| Focus | Steering + pedals | Mainly steering |
| Ease of use | Steeper learning curve | Easier for beginners |
| Fuel efficiency | Generally better | Generally lower |
Why Choose Epic Driving School
At Epic Driving School, we offer patient, professional driving lessons tailored to your needs. Our experienced instructors will guide you through parallel parking and all other manoeuvres until you’re test-ready. We serve Dublin, Meath, Kildare, and Louth, with both manual and automatic options available.
FAQ: Parallel Parking
1. How many times can I try to park during my test?
You’re allowed two attempts at parallel parking during the RSA driving test. If you don’t succeed the first time, you can reposition and try again.
2. What if I hit the kerb?
Hitting the kerb during your test can result in a major fault, depending on how hard you hit it. Always aim to stop just before the kerb and adjust gently.
3. Do I need to signal while parallel parking?
Yes. Signal to the left before you start the manoeuvre and cancel it once you’re parked.
4. Can I use reference points to help me park?
Absolutely. Many instructors teach you to use your mirrors and windows as visual guides. Practice these in a quiet area first.
5. How much space should I leave between cars?
Leave about 30 cm from the kerb and at least 1 metre between your car and the ones in front and behind.
6. Is parallel parking required in the test if I live in a rural area?
Yes. Parallel parking is part of the RSA test regardless of where you take it in Ireland.
7. What’s the best way to practice parallel parking?
Practice in a quiet street with plenty of space around you. Use cones or plastic markers if you want to simulate cars. Always have a qualified driver or instructor with you.
8. Can I avoid parallel parking if I only drive in rural areas?
While you might not park like this every day, learning the skill is still important for your test and for unexpected situations in towns or cities.
Next Steps: Book Your Lesson Today
Ready to master parallel parking and more? Contact Epic Driving School today to book your lesson. Whether you’re just starting out or need a few extra sessions before your test, we’re here to help you drive with confidence.
Internal Links to Add:
- “driving lessons in Dublin” → Dublin driving lessons page
- “RSA driving test manoeuvres” → RSA test manoeuvres page
- “manual driving lessons” → Manual lessons page
- “automatic driving lessons” → Automatic lessons page
- “beginner driving course” → Beginner course page
- “pre-test driving lessons” → Pre-test lessons page
- “driving instructor training” → ADI training page