Thinking of driving in Canada’s cities? Great! Now comes the real challenge: parking -  a true test of patience, budgeting, and sometimes even your parallel parking skills.

Here’s what you need to know before you pull into that perfect spot:

1. Read the Signs Like Your Life Depends on It

In Canadian cities, parking signs are no joke. One pole could have three different signs stacked up, all giving different rules depending on the day, the time, and even the season. Take a second (or three) to actually read and understand them. Parking illegally, even for five minutes, can land you a hefty ticket.

2. Watch Out for Street Parking Restrictions

During winter or after certain hours, many cities have special parking bans. In places like Montreal or Toronto, overnight parking on the street without a permit can be a fast way to rack up fines, or worse, find your car towed.

3. Budget for Paid Parking

Most downtown areas have paid parking meters or pay-by-app systems. Rates vary, but be ready for anywhere from $1 to $6 per hour, sometimes even more during big events. Always check if the parking meter needs you to prepay or if it's pay-at-exit.

4. Residential Parking Permits

If you're moving into a city neighborhood, you might need a residential parking permit to leave your car on the street long-term. These permits usually come with a fee and require proof of address. Without one, expect frequent tickets.

5. Private Parking Lots Aren’t Always Safer

Just because you're parking in a paid lot doesn't mean you can relax completely. Some lots are aggressively monitored. Always take a ticket, pay right away, and double-check the lot's rules to avoid nasty surprise charges or private penalties.

6. Accessibility Spots Are Serious Business

Never park in a designated accessibility (handicap) spot unless you have a valid permit. Fines for misuse are steep (think hundreds of dollars), and Canadian cities take it very seriously.

Parking in Canadian cities can feel a little overwhelming at first, but once you get into the rhythm - reading signs carefully, budgeting for meters, and keeping an eye on local rules, you’ll be parking like a pro. And hey, every successful parallel park deserves a little self-high-five!