Complete guide to forward and reverse bay parking. Learn both methods with step-by-step instructions, reference points, and test day tips.
4
Methods
Medium
Difficulty
High
Test Chance
Both
Directions Tested
Reverse bay parking (left) is generally preferred as it allows you to drive out forwards, giving better visibility when leaving. This is the most commonly tested variant.
Identify a bay on your left side. Look for a bay with empty spaces on either side if possible. this gives you more room. Drive past the bay slowly.
Drive forward past the target bay. Stop when your rear bumper is roughly level with the second line of the bay. Position about one car width away from the bays, keeping them on your left.
Before reversing, check all mirrors and both blind spots. Pay special attention to the left blind spot. Look through the rear window and ensure it's completely clear behind and around you. Select reverse gear.
Reverse slowly, steering full lock to the left towards the bay. Keep checking your left door mirror to see the bay lines. As the car starts to enter the bay, begin to straighten the steering.
Continue reversing until you're fully within the bay. Straighten your wheels. Check you're reasonably central between the bay lines using both door mirrors.
Use your reference points consistently. If you find yourself turning at different points each time, go back to basics with your instructor.
The examiner wants to see continuous observation. Check both door mirrors as you enter the bay to see the lines, and look around for pedestrians.
Use both door mirrors to compare your distance from each line. If you're angled, pull forward and straighten. don't try to reverse-correct from a bad angle.
Slow speed gives you time to steer accurately. Use clutch control (manual) or creep with gentle brake (automatic).
When leaving a bay (especially reversing out), check all around thoroughly. Pedestrians and other cars appear quickly in car parks.
If your test starts at the test centre car park, take a moment to look at the bays and plan your approach.
Car park manoeuvres should be slow. The examiner wants to see safe, controlled movements. not speed.
Your door mirrors are your best friend. Glance between them to see both bay lines as you park.
If you're not quite right, pull forward and re-adjust. The examiner won't mark you down for sensible corrections.
Our instructors will take you to a quiet car park and walk you through every step.