Chapter 3: Parking Rules

Properly parking a vehicle is a fundamental driving skill that ensures safety and maintains the orderly flow of traffic. Knowing where, when, and how to park legally is crucial for passing the driving skills test, where maneuvers like parallel parking and parking on a hill are evaluated. More importantly, following parking laws prevents your vehicle from becoming a hazard to other drivers, pedestrians, and emergency responders.

Drivers are responsible for ensuring their vehicle is parked safely and legally. A parked vehicle should not interfere with traffic, block visibility, or create a hazard. This involves choosing a proper location, securing the vehicle correctly, and adhering to all posted signs and pavement markings.

General Parking Rules

Whenever a driver parks a vehicle, they must ensure it is properly secured to prevent it from moving. The type of parking space—parallel, angled, or perpendicular—will dictate the approach, but the final steps for securing the vehicle are universal.

Securing the Vehicle

1. Set the Parking Brake: Always engage the parking brake firmly. This provides a mechanical lock on the wheels and is the primary defense against rolling.
2. Place in Gear: For an automatic transmission, shift the vehicle into “Park”. For a manual transmission, shift into first gear or reverse.
3. Turn Off the Engine: Turn off the ignition and remove the keys. Never leave the keys in a parked vehicle.
4. Check Traffic and Exit: Before opening your door, check your mirrors and blind spot for passing vehicles, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Exit on the curb side whenever possible.
5. Lock the Doors: Lock the vehicle to secure it and your belongings.