What the Handshake Symbol on a Parking Space Actually Means

A Symbol of Shared Use

The handshake symbol typically indicates that a parking space is reserved for shared or cooperative use. In many cases, it marks spots intended for carpool vehicles, ride-sharing services, or vehicles used for collaborative purposes—such as company fleets or community transport programs.

The handshake itself is a widely understood symbol of agreement and cooperation. When applied to parking, it sends a clear message: this space is meant for people who are working together in some way, rather than for individual, single-occupancy use.