Driver's Education: Backing Up and Parking Skills

Vocabulary and procedural rules for backing up and parking a vehicle according to official driving skills guidelines.

Skill 3: Backing Up Objective

To move the car precisely where you want it to go in reverse.

Backing Up Practice Progression

First practice off the street in a driveway or parking lot, then move to street situations with little or no traffic.

Rear Window Observation

The technique of turning your head to look out the rear window rather than relying solely on mirrors when backing up.

Idling Speed

The speed in a car with automatic transmission that is usually enough to move the car backward without applying gas.

Hand Position for Backing Up

The left hand is placed at the top of the steering wheel while the right arm is placed at the back of the passenger seat.

Ride the Brake

Keeping the foot in light contact with the brake while the car is moving backward to maintain control.

Backup Camera Protocol

A device that should be used exactly as a rearview mirror while the driver still utilizes all other proper backing techniques.

Front Swing (Backing Right)

The action where the front of the car swings wide to the left when the vehicle is backing to the right.

Front Swing (Backing Left)

The action where the front of the car swings wide to the right when the vehicle is backing to the left.

Maximum Backing Speed

Never move faster than a walking pace, moving inch by inch when close to an object.

Expressway Backing Rule

Drivers must never back up on an expressway; if an exit is missed, they must continue to the next exit.

Skill 5: Parking Objective

To park the car in perpendicular, angle, and/or parallel parking spaces smoothly and get the car out in the same way.

Downhill Parking Wheel Position

Drivers should turn the wheels to the curb (right).

Uphill Parking with Curb Wheel Position

Drivers should turn the wheels from the curb (left).

Uphill Parking without Curb Wheel Position

Drivers should turn the wheels to the right.

Incline Parking Safety Requirement

The parking brake must be set whenever parking the vehicle on an incline.

Dutch Reach Method (Exiting Vehicle)

Reaching with the right hand to open the vehicle door to provide a better opportunity to check for oncoming vehicles and bicyclists.

Disability Parking Violation Fine

Parking in spaces reserved for persons with disabilities carries a minimum fine of $250$.