Standard Driveway Dimensions Guide
Planning a new driveway? Get the right width, length, and size for single car, double car, circular drives, and code requirements.
Driveway Dimension Basics
Planning a new driveway requires careful attention to dimensions. The right size ensures comfortable vehicle maneuvering, adequate parking space, and compliance with local building codes.
Industry standards: single car 10-12 ft wide, double car 20-24 ft, minimum length 18-20 ft per vehicle. Local codes may vary—always check with your building department.
Measure your vehicles and add 2-3 feet on each side for door opening. Consider future needs (larger vehicles, RVs) when planning.
Single Car Driveway (9-12 feet)
Minimum 9 feet wide; 10-12 feet recommended for comfortable use. At 9 feet, parking is precise. 10-12 ft allows door opening onto the driveway. Average car width 6-7 ft; SUVs 7-8 ft.
Double Car Driveway (18-24 feet)
18-24 feet wide for two vehicles side by side. Minimum 18 ft for two average cars; 20-22 ft preferred for comfortable spacing and door opening. For tandem parking (one behind another): 10-12 ft width, 36-40 ft length.
Circular Driveway Dimensions
Width 10-12 ft per direction (20-24 ft total two-way). Inner island 12-15 ft diameter. Outer diameter 40-50 ft minimum; 50-60 ft comfortable. Entry/exit 12-16 ft each.
Turnaround Space
If no circular drive: turnaround radius 15-20 ft. T-turn: 20×20 ft minimum at end. Y-turn: widened area for three-point turns. Hammerhead (T-shaped): 20-24 ft wide and deep.
Code Requirements
Most municipalities: minimum width 9-10 ft; max 24-30 ft or % of frontage; setback 3-5 ft from property lines; 20-30 ft from intersections; max slope 15-20%. Always check local building department before finalizing plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Single-car: 10-12 feet. Double-car: 20-24 feet. These provide comfortable space for parking and vehicle entry/exit.
20-24 feet wide for side-by-side parking. For tandem (one behind the other): 10-12 ft width with 36-40 ft length.
18-20 feet for a single vehicle (car length plus walking space). For comfortable use: 20-22 feet. Average car 14-16 ft long.
Multiply width × length. Example: 20 ft × 25 ft = 500 sq ft. Use for material needs and cost estimates.
Width 12-14 ft; length 35-45 ft depending on RV. Class A up to 45 ft. Consider dedicated pad with reinforced concrete (6-8 in) and adequate approach.
Most areas require permits for new driveways. Check local building department for requirements, setbacks, and connection to street regulations.
27-36 feet wide for three cars side by side. Minimum 27 ft; 30-32 ft comfortable for standard vehicles.
Turnaround radius 15-20 ft. T-turn: 20×20 ft minimum. Provides space to turn without backing into the street.