Parking and Stopping Rules - Finland Driving Test

When parking near an intersection

Finnish traffic law prohibits parking within 5 meters of intersections to ensure visibility and safety.

If stopping momentarily at a pedestrian crossing

Stopping on or near pedestrian crossings endangers pedestrians and is not permitted.

In Finland, parking within 5 meters of an intersection

to ensure clear visibility and safe maneuvering for all road users. Blocking sightlines near intersections can pose serious risks, as drivers and cyclists may not see oncoming traffic clearly.

When a yellow zigzag line appears near the curb

Yellow zigzag lines indicate areas where stopping or parking is entirely forbidden.

In narrow residential roads

Double parking obstructs traffic flow and is not allowed under any conditions.

When parking in a time-restricted zone

A parking disc indicating arrival time must be displayed in time-restricted zones.

When near a level crossing

It is crucial not to obstruct rail crossings for safety reasons.

When stopped beside another parked car on a narrow street

Parking on sidewalks is a hazard to pedestrians and strictly forbidden.

When using a bus stop zone

Bus zones must remain clear except in genuine emergencies.

If parking in front of a driveway

Obstructing private or public driveways is a violation.

In prohibited parking zones after breakdown

If your vehicle poses a hazard like during a breakdown or sudden stop you must immediately switch on hazard lights. In Finland, place a warning triangle at a safe distance behind the vehicle to alert other drivers.

When parking in a blue-zone without a disc

Parking discs are mandatory in blue-zoned areas failing to use one is an offense.

While driving in hilly or sloped terrain

Wheels should be turned toward the curb when facing downhill, or away when uphill.

If stopping on a bridge

Stopping on bridges is dangerous due to limited space and visibility. It increases collision risk and disrupts traffic flow.

In a fire hydrant zone

Blocking hydrants can delay firefighting response times. Clear access is legally required for emergency use.

When parking on two-way streets

Parking against the flow is unsafe and can confuse other drivers. It is also a traffic offense in many areas.

If a solid yellow curb line is present

A solid yellow line near the curb signals strict no-stopping/no-parking rules. It ensures safety and smooth traffic movement.

In narrow residential areas

Brief halts are legal only when they do not block lanes, crossings, or cause danger. Obstruction leads to penalties.

When occupying multiple parking spaces

Unauthorized parking in reserved or restricted zones affects traffic discipline. Violators can face fines or towing.

In snowy weather

Vehicles left in these areas obstruct snow removal during winter. This endangers road users and slows emergency response.

When another car is parked on a narrow street

Improper stopping or parking can block visibility, reduce lane width, and cause accidents, posing serious safety risks.

If stopping across pedestrian zones

Blocking sidewalks or crossings endangers pedestrians. Finnish law protects clear pedestrian pathways at all times.

In unrestricted zones

Residential areas usually permit parking, but signs may impose rules. Drivers must always check for local restrictions.

If loading or unloading takes place on a public road

Finnish regulations require that at least 3 meters of space be left between parked vehicles and the opposite edge of the road.

When parking at an EV charging spot without charging

Parking in charging spots is reserved exclusively for electric vehicles that are actively charging.

If car breaks down in no-parking zone

In emergencies, stopping is tolerated if hazard lights are used and help is contacted right away.

When inside a tunnel

Tunnels are high-risk areas where stopping is strictly prohibited, except in absolute emergencies.

In zones marked with blue P on white background

This is the standard Finnish sign for unrestricted public parking unless there are additional signs indicating conditions.

When stopping to pick up a passenger

Brief stops for drop-off/pick-up are allowed as long as you do not block traffic or pedestrian paths.