Parallel Parking, Step-by-Step (The Method That Works on the ICBC Road Test)

The Maneuver That Catches Most New Drivers

Parallel parking is one of the most-failed maneuvers on the ICBC road test, and it's also the maneuver new drivers are most anxious about. But it's not hard. It's a step-by-step process that, once you've done it 20 times, becomes muscle memory. Here's the method we teach at Ardas Driving School.

What ICBC Examiners Are Looking For

The grading criteria for parallel parking on the ICBC road test:

• Within 30 cm of the curb at completion
• Wheels straight
• Vehicle parallel to the curb (not angled)
• Within the parking space (not blocking the car in front or behind)
• Smooth steering and braking — no jerky movements
• Proper observation throughout (mirror checks, shoulder checks)

You're allowed up to 2 corrections. Three or more = automatic fail.

The 7-Step Method

Step 1: Identify the Spot

The space should be at least 1.5 times the length of your car. Tighter spaces are technically possible but unnecessary on the test.

Step 2: Position Your Car

Pull up alongside the car you'll be parking behind. Your rear bumper should be roughly aligned with the rear bumper of that car. Leave about 60 cm of space between your car and theirs.

Step 3: Signal and Check

Right turn signal. Mirror check (rearview, right side). Shoulder check right. Confirm no traffic approaching from behind.

Step 4: Reverse Slowly, Steering Right

Begin reversing. As soon as your front bumper passes the rear bumper of the car beside you, turn the steering wheel fully to the right. Keep reversing slowly. Your car should start angling into the spot at roughly 45 degrees.

Step 5: Straighten When Your Car Is Halfway In

When your front bumper is roughly halfway between the cars (your car at about 45° to the curb), straighten the wheel. Continue reversing slowly.

Step 6: Steer Left to Bring the Front In

As your front end clears the bumper of the car you're parking behind, turn the steering wheel fully to the left. Your front end will pivot into the spot.

Step 7: Stop and Straighten

Stop when the car is parallel to the curb. Put it in drive, pull forward 30 cm if needed to centre yourself in the space. Straighten the wheels. Done.

Common Mistakes (and Fixes)

• Parking too far from the curb — you started too far from the car you were parking behind. Start 60 cm out, not 1.5 metres.
• Hitting the curb — you turned left too late or too aggressively in step 6. Practice the timing in an empty parking lot with cones.
• Ending up at an angle — you didn't fully straighten the wheel in step 5. Be deliberate about each steering input.
• Taking too long — speed comes with practice. Aim for 30 seconds total once you're confident.

How to Practice

The fastest way to get good at parallel parking: 20 repetitions in an empty parking lot with cones marking out a parking space. Once you can do it 10 times in a row without corrections, you're test-ready.

At Ardas Driving School, we typically dedicate one full lesson to parking maneuvers (parallel, reverse stall, three-point turn) before the road test. Book a Driving Class at $55, or call (778) 300-3339.