Digital parking solutions are replacing machines and paper tickets. With the right routine you control time limits, keep evidence ready for inspections and avoid fines. This guide covers common apps, setup, documentation and what to do when technology fails.
For the legal background, see Parking rules and short-stop duties in Stopping rules.
When do you use digital parking?
- Public parking where machines are replaced by an app or SMS solution
- Private car parks with ANPR (automatic number plate recognition)
- Charging bays where charging and parking share the same app
- When you need to extend time without returning to the car
Typical apps and services
| Service | Use case | Distinct features |
|---|---|---|
| EasyPark, APCOA Flow, ParkLink | Public and private fee zones | GPS-based zone suggestions, reminders before expiry |
| Camera-based check-in/out | Car parks with licence-plate cameras | Automatic entry/exit; pay in the app within the deadline |
| SMS parking | Smaller or municipal zones | Requires correct zone code and registration number |
| Charging app (e.g. Mer, Recharge) | Combined charging and parking | Ends the parking session when charging stops |
Before you start parking
- Read the signs on site and note the zone code or maximum stay.
- Add the correct number plate in the app—mistakes lead to fines even if you paid.
- Choose and verify your payment method (card, Vipps, invoice, etc.).
- Apply physical requirements such as a parking disc if the sign demands it.
- Save a screenshot of the active session if you swap phone or share the car.
During the session
- Watch app notifications and extend in time when needed.
- For combined charging, stop the parking session when the car leaves, see Charging an EV.
- Switching vehicles mid-session? End the current ticket and start a new one with the correct plate.
Documentation and proof
| Situation | Required evidence | Why |
|---|---|---|
| On-site inspection | Active digital ticket or receipt | Parking officer verifies paid time |
| Appeal a ticket | Screenshots and receipt | Shows zone code, time and registration number |
| Employer reimbursement | PDF/receipt from the app | Cost evidence for mileage or expense reports |
| Shared/leasing car | Log of who parked | Clarifies responsibility for fees |
Issues and quick fixes
| Problem | Likely cause | Immediate action |
|---|---|---|
| App cannot connect | Network or GPS outage | Note the time, photograph the sign and pay via SMS or machine if possible |
| Wrong zone selected | Manual error or auto-suggestion | Stop immediately, start a new ticket and document the correction |
| Camera missed exit | Heavy traffic or dirty plate | Register exit manually in the app and take a photo of time/odometer |
| Phone battery empty | Poor battery management | Log in from another device or contact the provider for back-dated entry |
Checklist before you leave
- Confirm the session is ended or extended.
- Make sure the car is locked and receipts are stored in the app or e-mail.
- Log the finish time in your Driving log if you need records.
- Report anomalies to the parking operator and save the case reference.