For everyone who dreads parallel parking, this viral method might just be the confidence boost need to finally perfect what many believe is the trickiest manoeuvre of all
For many learner and experienced drivers alike, parallel parking is the move that piles on the pressure, but one TikTok driving instructor and influencer has broken it down into four simple steps.
Tight spaces, impatient drivers waiting behind and the fear of clipping a kerb make it one of the trickiest manoeuvers on the road. However, a video posted by @thedrivinginstructor promises to reveal the “secret to parallel parking”.
The short but informative clip went viral and has been viewed over 1.7 million times on TikTok. Instead of overcomplicating the issue or relying on confusing markers, the demonstration uses a clear system based on controlled steering and steady observation.
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Step one: get into position
The first step is all about lining yourself up properly. The video shows the driver pulling up parallel to the car positioned in front of the space. This setup is crucial because starting too far out or at an angle can make the rest of the move impossible without lots of extra corrections. In the video, he said: “Step one: place your car parallel to the car in front of you.”
Step two: turn left and reverse
Once the car is in place, the driver turns the wheel one full rotation to the left before beginning to reverse. At this point, checking mirrors and surroundings is essential. The instructor stresses that safety comes first — awareness of pedestrians, cyclists and other cars is essential while carrying out the manoeuvre.
This controlled left turn helps guide the back of the car gently into the space while keeping clearance from the parked vehicle ahead. The instructor said: “Step two: turn the wheel once around to the left and begin to reverse. Always check your surroundings while you’re doing this.”
Step three: steer right and continue reversing
After gaining the correct angle with the initial move, the next stage corrects the car’s alignment. The instructor demonstrates turning the wheel two complete rotations to the right. As the driver keeps reversing, the vehicle begins to tuck neatly into the space, bringing the front in line with the rear.
Timing this step is key — too early or too late, and the car may either swing too far out or risk clipping the pavement. He advised: “Step three: turn your wheel twice round to the right and reverse.”
Step four: straighten up and finish
The final step is to straighten the wheel before easing back into position. The instructor explains this means turning the steering to a neutral, centred hold and re
versing further “two car lengths”. Viewers were quick to point out that, in Britain at least, parking spaces rarely allow so much room. Adjustments may be needed depending on how tight the space is, but the principle remains the same. The driving expert concluded: “Step four: make your wheel straight and reverse back two car length distances.”
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Viewers flooded the comments with recognition and relief, but also some disbelief. One admitted: “I’ve been driving for years and I still can’t parallel park. I’m gonna try this tomorrow.”
Another wrote: “Two car lengths? This is in Britain right? Lucky to have one car length available.” While a third agreed: “Lol in London, this does NOT work.”
Still, the video’s appeal lies in its simplicity. Breaking the move down into just four clear steps — parallel, turn left, turn right, straighten — gives learners a solid structure to fall back on, even under extreme pressure.
So for anyone who dreads parallel parking, this viral method might just be the confidence boost need to finally master it.
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