Texas Parallel Parking: How to Get It Right on Your Road Test
Parallel parking is the maneuver that makes new drivers the most nervous. It's also a required skill on the Texas road test. The good news: it's a learnable skill, not a talent. With the right method and some practice, you can do it every time.
Why It Matters
The Texas DPS road test includes a parallel parking section. You don't have to be perfect, but you do have to demonstrate control. Hitting the curb hard, mounting the curb, or failing to park within the space can cost you points or fail the test outright.
Beyond the test, parallel parking is a practical skill you'll use in cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston, where street parking is common.
The Method
Here's the method that works for most cars. Practice it in an empty lot with cones before you try it on a real street.
Step 1: Pull alongside the car in front.
Signal, then pull up parallel to the car you'll park behind. Leave about two to three feet between your car and theirs. Your rear bumper should line up with theirs.
Step 2: Check your mirrors and blind spot.
Look for traffic behind you. Then turn your wheel all the way to the right (toward the curb) and begin backing up slowly.
Step 3: Back in at a 45-degree angle.
As you back up, your car will angle toward the curb. When your car is at about a 45-degree angle, stop.
Step 4: Straighten out.
Turn your wheel all the way to the left (away from the curb). Continue backing up slowly. Your car will begin to straighten out.
Step 5: Adjust.
Once your car is parallel to the curb, straighten your wheels. Pull forward or back as needed to center yourself in the space.
Step 6: Park and secure.
Set the parking brake, turn off the engine, and check that you're within 12 inches of the curb.
Common Mistakes
Hitting the curb. This usually happens when you turn too early or back up too fast. Slow down and use your mirrors.
Not checking blind spots. Before you back up, turn your head and look. Don't rely only on mirrors.
Turning the wheel the wrong way. Remember: right to back in, left to straighten out.
Parking too far from the curb. Texas law says you must park within 12 inches. Practice judging that distance.
Panicking. If you mess up, pull out and try again. On the road test, you get one chance to correct. Stay calm.
Practice Tips
- Start in an empty parking lot with two cones or trash cans as your "cars."
- Practice with the same car you'll use on the test.
- Ask a patient driver to watch and give feedback.
- Practice on both sides—you never know which side you'll need.
- Do it 10 times in a row until it feels automatic.
The Bottom Line
Parallel parking is a skill, not a mystery. Use the method, practice in a low-pressure setting, and stay calm on test day. You'll get it.
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