READ THE SIGNS! If you can’t seem to find a parking sign around you, check the tags in the windows of the cars next to you and, of course, make sure none of them already have tickets.

PLAN AHEAD! If you are driving back to campus for a class, make sure you give yourself enough time to park and walk to your class.

KEEP THE PERMIT VISIBLE! Those parking sticklers may be able to see part of your permit, but they will still issue a citation if they cannot see the number code. So, if you have other things hanging from your rearview mirror, get out of your car and make sure that your entire permit is visible.

USE YOUR RESOURCES! Already have a ticket? Use it to your advantage. Tickets are usually issued on a daily basis, so if you go to your car and find one there, just leave it. This could buy you time before your next one, or until you can move your car.

AVOID METERS! Yes, you can park in the meter spots, but these are only good for short amounts of time. So, unless you plan on feeding quarters into the meters every 30 minutes, consider moving your car to a cheaper spot.

NOTE THE HOURS! With a valid OU permit, you can park in faculty/staff lots after 4 p.m. They’re typically closer to buildings and easy-to-spot, so be on the lookout if you’ve got night classes.

USE LOOPHOLES! Typically, parking attendants don’t ticket on weekends. We’re just saying. Though don’t try to park on-campus during gamedays. Just don’t. Additionally, if you park in the Union Parking Garage, wait to move your car until after midnight. No one will be on duty to collect your money and you might just get away with parking scot-free.

KNOW THE AREA! In and around North Greek, there are tons of side streets just waiting to be used. If you can’t find a spot, you don’t mind walking or you’re in a pinch, circle these streets a few times and you might get lucky. It’s free, legal and not too far from campus. Just try to avoid peak times like midday or weekends.

STOCK UP ON COINS! Campus Corner lots often require tokens from businesses for you to get out. Stock up on these, so when you’re on a mad dash to that test in Sarkeys you’re late for, you can park safely and securely right around the corner.

Should any of these strategies fall through, the best advice to keep your precious cash is to appeal your ticket. Often, the Parking Office will take pity on first-offense freshmen and waive the ticket.