Use this guide to prepare for the exam, and refer to the official manual for complete details.
Properly parking your vehicle is a fundamental aspect of road safety and courtesy that is often overlooked. Knowing where, when, and how to park legally prevents collisions, ensures a smooth flow of traffic, and keeps critical access areas clear for pedestrians and emergency vehicles. These rules are a key part of the driver’s knowledge exam and are essential for responsible driving every day.
General Parking Rules
Whenever you park, you must ensure your vehicle is stationary and secure. This involves several key steps and techniques depending on the location.
Securing Your Vehicle
Before leaving your vehicle, always follow these steps to ensure it will not move:
- Set the parking brake firmly.
- Place the gear selector in “Park” for an automatic transmission. For a manual transmission, shift into first gear if facing uphill or reverse gear if facing downhill.
- Turn off the engine and remove the ignition key.
- Check for traffic, especially bicyclists, before opening your door.
- Lock the vehicle.
🔒
This is Premium content. Get access to restricted content — extended DMV Tests, Study Guides, and CDL exams.
Get Premium AccessAlready purchased? Log in