California DMV Permit Test (Class C)Rules of the Road and Right-of-WayMedium
When parallel parking on a level street, how far away from the curb should your wheels be when you are finished parking?
- AWithin 24 inches.
- BWithin 18 inches.
- CWithin 6 inches.
- DWithin 12 inches.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Within 18 inches.
According to the California Driver Handbook, when parallel parking, your vehicle must be parallel to the curb and within 18 inches of the curb. Parking farther away can obstruct traffic or appear illegally parked.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 24 inches is too far from the curb and considered an illegal parking distance.
- C. 6 inches is generally too close and difficult to achieve consistently without hitting the curb.
- D. 12 inches is closer than the maximum allowed, but 18 inches is the specific limit.
Parallel Parking Distance
When parallel parking, your vehicle must be positioned within 18 inches of the curb.
- Ensures vehicle is not obstructing traffic.
- A common requirement for driving tests.
- Failure to meet this can result in a ticket.
Memory trick: Eighteen inches, no more, no less, for parallel parking success.