How to Get Better at Parking: 8 Tips for New Drivers (2026)
The fastest way to get better at parking is short, regular practice in an empty lot, with your mirrors set correctly and a clear reference point for each move. Start with straight-in and reverse parking, then move to parallel parking, which the DMV says is part of every New York road test.
Reviewed by Michael, Professional Driving Instructor
Last updated: October 21, 2026
Here are 8 tips, practice drills and what you need to know for the road test.
How to Get Better at Parking: 8 Tips
1. Practice Often
Short, regular sessions work better than one long one. Practice in an empty lot where it is allowed.
2. Pick an Easy Space First
Start with open spaces with no cars on either side, then move to tighter spots.
3. Know Your Car's Size
Learn where your car's corners are. Cones or markers help you see how much room you really have.
4. Set Your Mirrors Correctly
Adjust your seat first, then your mirrors, before you start the car.
5. Use Reference Points
Pick a point on your car, such as the side mirror, and line it up with a mark like the edge of a space or the car next to you.
6. Go Slowly
Slow speed gives you time to correct. You can always stop, adjust and try again.
7. Get Feedback From an Instructor
An instructor can spot small habits, like turning too early, that are hard to notice yourself.
8. Use Cameras and Sensors as a Check
Backup cameras and sensors help, but keep using your mirrors and looking over your shoulder.
Drive Rite Instructor Tip: Pick one reference point on your car for each parking move and use the same one every time. Consistency is what makes parking feel easy.
Parking Drills to Practice in an Empty Lot
- Straight-in parking between two lines.
- Reverse (back-in) parking.
- Parallel parking between two cones or markers.
- Pulling out of each space safely.
Our parents' guide to practicing in a parking lot has more drill ideas.
Getting Out of a Parking Spot Safely
Leaving a space matters as much as getting into it: check behind you, signal, check your mirrors and look over your shoulder before you move. See how to get out of a parallel parking spot.
Parking Tips FAQ
How can I get better at parking fast?
Practice short sessions often, go slowly and use the same reference points every time.
How close to the curb do I need to park on the road test?
The DMV says your wheels must be no more than one foot from the curb.
Is parallel parking on the NY road test?
Yes. The DMV says it is part of every road test.
Should I use my backup camera when parking?
You can use it as a check, but keep using mirrors and looking behind you. See backup cameras on the road test.
Where can I practice parking?
An empty lot where practice is allowed, or quiet streets with a supervising driver. The DMV says practice driving is not allowed at road test sites.
Learning how to get better at parking takes practice, not luck. Start with easy spaces, keep your checks consistent and build up from there.
Before you park on a city street, it also helps to know the New York State parking laws that can get you a ticket.
Before you park on a city street, it also helps to know the New York State parking laws that can get you a ticket.