Know what the letters mean
Most automatic cars have P for park, R for reverse, N for neutral and D for drive. Some also offer lower ranges, manual-style shift modes or regenerative-braking settings. Read the owner's manual: control layouts and operating procedures vary, especially in electric and hybrid vehicles. Never select park or reverse while the car is moving contrary to the manufacturer's instructions.
Prepare before moving
Adjust your seat, mirrors and seat belt, and make sure you can comfortably press the brake fully. With the brake firmly applied, start the vehicle as instructed by the manufacturer. Check around the car, select D and release the parking brake when appropriate. Some automatics creep forward as you ease off the brake; others behave differently. Observe all around and move off only when the space is clear.
Control the vehicle smoothly
Use your right foot for both pedals in a typical automatic car unless a vehicle adaptation requires another approved technique. Keep your left foot away from the pedals so you do not accidentally press the brake. Apply the accelerator gently; use the brake progressively and early. At junctions, hold the vehicle stopped with the service brake as directed in the manual and be ready for pedestrians and turning traffic.
Reversing and parking
Stop fully before changing between drive and reverse. Check mirrors and blind spots, then travel slowly because a person or object can move behind the vehicle unexpectedly. When parking, come to a complete stop, secure the parking brake as instructed and select P according to the manufacturer's procedure. Parking order can vary by vehicle and slope.
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