There was a time when curb parking was the scariest part of a driver’s test. You would have to be able to park along a curb and do so without hitting the curb at all. This is still part of the test in many areas. That is why so many people look for tips for parking along a curb.
Blind Spots
However, this is not a part of the test to be afraid of. In fact, parking along the curb might be the easiest part of the test. You just need to know a few things first and don’t forget to practice. The best tips for parking along a curb can help ensure your success and help you pass your driver’s test at your local DMV.
The most important thing to remember is that blind spots exist. Especially when you are trying to park along a curb. You have set your mirrors so that you can see to your left and to your right. However, you will not be able to see the curb if your mirrors have been placed in the right positions.
That is okay because we are practicing curb parking, not parallel parking. Do not attempt to adjust your mirrors to see the curb while taking the test.
Drive Into the Spot
One of the best tips for parking along a curb is to find a spot where you can drive into it. This will help you see the curb as you approach it and judge how close you are to the curb. You could also use the car in front of you that is also parked along the curb to judge distance.
This is very important as you will be even more confident in your distance to drive straight back in reverse. This is another common part of the DMV driver’s test.
Slow and Steady
You should definitely take it slowly. It may not seem like much of a danger, it is just a curb. However, you could pop a tire or destroy the alignment of your tires if you hit the curb too hard. The only way to do that is to drive too fast into the curb. Slow down as you approach the curb and don’t forget to check your blind spots for pedestrians.
Straighten Out
You will want your car to be as straight as possible. One of the tips for parking along the curb is to use the space you have. You could pull forward a bit to straighten out or pull back a bit. However, you must remember to check your mirrors and look behind you if you decide reversing is the best option.
The last thing you want to do is fail the test by not safely reversing.
Practice
The most important tip is to practice. You will have your learner’s permit for months before you take your final test. You can practice in front of your own home, in an empty neighborhood, or even in some parking lots. There is no amount of reading that will fully teach you the feeling of knowing you’re close to the curb but not close enough.
The only way to get that knowledge is to practice.