Practical Test Tips – Part Two

A couple of weeks ago we took a look at some of the basic tips for your practical test, including some general rules you need to follow in regards to your manoeuvres and how to properly do an emergency stop.

This week we will be following on from those tips with a further examination of two of the parking manoeuvres that you may be asked to do during your test. Remember to keep the tips from the last article in mind at all times while also following the information below.

Reverse Parking

Reverse parking into a parking bay can often be intimidating, particularly if there are cars surrounding the space that you are aiming to park in. However, if this is the case it is important to remember that these parked cars can be used to create markers for your own parking attempt, so use them as reference points and adjust the vehicle accordingly to ensure you don’t hit them. Just remember to take it nice and steady and remember that you are being tested on accuracy and smoothness, rather than speed.

You should also make sure to keep the reference points that your driving instructor spoke about during your lessons in mind at all times. Recognise the reference points that you have in your car and use them at all times so that you know how much you need to turn by and when you should make adjustments.

Finally, it is crucial that you keep your observations in mind and conduct them accordingly. Never spend more than two seconds looking at any one spot, but pay special attention to the side mirrors so that you can check for white lines, in addition to regularly checking over your shoulder to spot any potential hazards. Remember that it is okay to stop and pull out of the bay if you don’t believe that you will achieve correct position with your current course and ensure you don’t pull too far back. As always, keep the wheels straight at the conclusion of the manoeuvre.

Parallel Parking

Parallel parking is manoeuvre that is most feared by many new drivers, so always make sure you get plenty of practice during your driving lessons if you are going to struggle.

Once it comes time to complete the manoeuvre, take a deep breath and relax. Remember your reference points and prepare to check them in advance of the actually manoeuvre, keeping them in mind at all times in an effort to keep the car as smooth as possible.

Of course, your observations are again key, so make sure to keep the two second rule in mind. Keep checking over both shoulders to detect any hazards and stop immediately if you see anything that could prevent you from parking. You should check your left mirror regularly to ensure you are not in danger of mounting the curb, but you still want to stay close to it. Anything more than a drain’s width may be too far away, so adjust accordingly. Keep your wheels straight and don’t go too far back to successfully conclude the manoeuvre.