What Is Parallel Parking?
Parallel parking is a technique used to fit a vehicle into a space between two others, aligned with the curb. Unlike angled or perpendicular parking, parallel parking requires the driver to reverse into the space while managing limited clearance and tight angles.
It’s a manoeuvre that appears simple until you’re behind the wheel. That’s why nearly every Driving School in Edmonton places emphasis on mastering this skill—because it’s not just about parking, it’s about control, observation, and spatial judgement.
Why Does It Matter?
Parallel parking is more than a test requirement—it’s a vital urban driving skill. In residential zones, downtown cores, school areas, and hospital surroundings, curbside parking is often the only option available.
Failing to perform a proper parallel park can result in traffic disruption, property damage, or ticketing if the vehicle extends too far from the curb. That’s why a qualified Driving School in Edmonton makes this part of their core curriculum: so that learners are not just licensed but prepared.
How Do You Learn It?
At a reputable Driving School in Edmonton, parallel parking is broken down into small, manageable steps. It’s not rushed. You learn through demonstration, hands-on practice, and correction in real-world driving conditions.
Below is a breakdown of the five essential steps you’ll learn when training with a certified instructor in Edmonton.
Step 1: Position the Vehicle Correctly
Approach the parking space slowly and align your vehicle parallel to the one in front of the empty spot. Ideally, leave about half a metre between the two vehicles, with your rear bumpers roughly level.
During lessons at a Driving School in Edmonton, you’ll practise this set-up repeatedly, learning to rely on reference points like mirrors, road markings, and spacing patterns. Precision in this first move determines how smoothly the rest of the manoeuvre will go.
Step 2: Begin Reversing with a Sharp Turn
With your car properly aligned, shift into reverse and begin to slowly back up while turning the wheel completely toward the curb. Your vehicle will angle itself into the space, forming a wide arc.
Instructors at a Driving School in Edmonton will coach you on timing—when to turn, how fast to reverse, and how to watch for the curb, other vehicles, or pedestrians. It’s not just about turning the wheel; it’s about knowing when to do it and how much.
Step 3: Straighten the Wheel Midway Through
Once the rear of your vehicle is mainly in the spot and the front clears the bumper of the car ahead, it’s time to start straightening the wheel.
You’ll practise this transition repeatedly at your Driving School in Edmonton, because this is the point where many learners lose alignment. You’ll learn how to feel for the right moment to straighten out, maintain control, and avoid contact with the curb or adjacent vehicles.
Step 4: Back In Fully and Adjust as Needed
Continue reversing straight until your car is parallel with the curb and entirely within the space. Ideally, you’ll be about 20 to 30 centimetres from the curb with enough clearance in front and behind.
One benefit of working with a Driving School in Edmonton is having an instructor who helps you refine your position. You’ll practise correcting misalignment, pulling forward to straighten out, and adjusting for varied curb heights or street slopes.
Step 5: Secure the Vehicle and Final Checks
The final step is securing your parked vehicle. Set the parking brake, shift into park, and check that you’re centred in the space. Be aware of nearby driveways, hydrants, and pedestrian pathways.
You’ll be taught to finish strong—because in a road test or daily life, your ability to park responsibly speaks to your overall awareness as a driver. At a Driving School in Edmonton, this last step is never rushed or skipped.
Practise Builds Confidence
No one masters parallel parking on their first attempt. It’s repetition, feedback, and environment-specific training that helps you get it right. That’s what a Driving School in Edmonton offers—structured learning in real driving conditions, so you’re prepared beyond just test day.
You’ll gain familiarity with different vehicle sizes, parking on hills, responding to traffic while parking, and learning how to judge distances using your mirrors and rear window views.
Moving Forward
Learning to parallel park is about more than ticking a box on your test sheet. It’s a practical, day-to-day skill that keeps you safe, legal, and confident behind the wheel. Whether you’re new to driving or refining your technique, a qualified Driving School in Edmonton offers the tools, coaching, and practice to make this challenge manageable.
If you’re looking for hands-on support in mastering parking techniques and other essential driving skills, LeaP Driving School offers structured training tailored to the needs of Edmonton learners.