American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What is the typical angle (in degrees) for parallel parking spaces?

1. 0

2. 30

3. 45

4. 90

The correct answer is: 0

Parallel parking spaces are typically oriented at an angle of 0 degrees, which means that they are aligned parallel to the curb or the road. This arrangement allows vehicles to park alongside the street in a straight line. When parking at this angle, drivers can easily maneuver into the space without cutting across adjacent traffic lanes, and the parking process remains relatively straightforward. In contrast, the other angles presented in the options refer to angled parking. For instance, 30 and 45 degrees are common angles for angled parking spaces, which are designed to facilitate a quick entry and exit from the parking area but may require more space. A 90-degree angle is indicative of perpendicular parking spaces, which align cars directly against the curb, maximizing the use of space but requiring more room to navigate in and out. Overall, the 0-degree angle represents the standard for parallel parking, focusing on simplicity and efficiency within urban environments where this parking form is prevalent.