Chapter 3: Parking Rules

Knowing how to park a vehicle legally and safely is a fundamental driving skill that is often overlooked. Proper parking prevents collisions, ensures the smooth flow of traffic, and guarantees that emergency vehicles have clear access. Mastering these rules is essential for passing the road test and for being a courteous and responsible member of the driving community.

Tennessee law specifies how, where, and when a vehicle may be parked. The rules cover everything from securing the vehicle and parking on hills to identifying prohibited parking zones and respecting spaces reserved for persons with disabilities. Failure to follow these regulations can result in fines, towing, and dangerous situations for other road users.

General Parking Rules

Whenever a driver parks a vehicle, they must ensure it is left in a safe and secure state. This includes following specific procedures for different types of parking and terrain.

Securing the Vehicle

Before leaving a parked vehicle, a driver must follow these steps to prevent it from moving or being stolen:

1. Set the Parking Brake: This is the most critical step to ensure the vehicle does not roll. It should be used every time the vehicle is parked, especially on an incline.
2. Place the Vehicle in Gear: For an automatic transmission, shift to “Park.” For a manual transmission, shift into “Reverse” when facing downhill or “First” gear when facing uphill.
3. Turn Off the Engine and Remove the Key: It is illegal in Tennessee to leave the engine running in a parked, unattended vehicle. Removing the key is a basic security measure.
4. Lock the Doors: Secure the vehicle and its contents by locking all doors.