Chapter 3: Parking Rules

Knowing how to park legally and safely is a fundamental driving skill that impacts traffic flow and public safety. Proper parking prevents obstructions for other drivers, pedestrians, and emergency vehicles, while improper parking can lead to fines, towing, and dangerous situations. The knowledge test will assess your understanding of parking on hills, prohibited parking zones, and rules for accessible parking, making this chapter crucial for both the exam and everyday driving.

General Parking Rules

Parking is more than just stopping the car; it involves a series of steps to ensure the vehicle is safe and secure. These rules apply whether parking for a few minutes or overnight.

Securing the Vehicle

Before leaving a parked vehicle, a driver must follow a consistent procedure.

1. Set the Parking Brake: Always engage the parking brake firmly. This provides a mechanical lock on the wheels that is separate from the transmission, offering a critical layer of security against rolling.
2. Place in Gear: For automatic transmissions, shift the vehicle into “Park.” For manual transmissions, shift into the lowest gear if parking uphill or into “Reverse” if parking downhill.
3. Turn Off the Engine and Accessories: Shut off the engine and remove the key from the ignition.
4. Lock the Vehicle: Lock all doors to prevent theft.

Pro-Tip:
In very cold weather, a parking brake can sometimes freeze in the “on” position. If this is a concern, ensure the wheels are turned correctly for the hill and the vehicle is securely in gear as the primary method of preventing a roll-away.