Chapter 3: Parking Rules

Knowing how to park a vehicle legally and safely is a fundamental driving skill that protects property, ensures traffic flow, and maintains access for emergency services. Improper parking can lead to fines, towing, and dangerous situations for pedestrians and other drivers. Mastering these rules is essential for the road test and for being a responsible member of the driving community.

General Parking Rules

Properly parking a vehicle involves more than just finding an empty space. It requires following specific procedures to ensure the vehicle is secure and positioned correctly according to the type of parking available.

Securing the Vehicle

Whenever a driver leaves a vehicle, they must take steps to ensure it is secure.

1. Set the Parking Brake: Always set the emergency or parking brake firmly. This provides a mechanical lock on the wheels that is separate from the transmission.
2. Place in Park: For automatic transmissions, shift the gear selector into “Park.” For manual transmissions, place it in reverse if facing downhill or in first gear if facing uphill.
3. Turn Off the Engine: Never leave a vehicle running and unattended.
4. Remove the Keys: Always take the keys with you and lock the doors to prevent theft.