Can a temporary ID card be used for the Subject 4 test?
2 Answers
A temporary ID card can be used for the Subject 4 test because it holds the same legal validity as a regular ID card. Simply visit any local public security bureau, submit your household registration booklet, a recent one-inch black-and-white photo without a hat, and pay a fee of 10 RMB for the document. You can obtain the temporary ID card on the same day. The Subject 4 test consists of 50 questions, primarily presented in the form of case studies, images, and animations. The total score is 100, with a passing score of 90. Subject 4, also known as the theoretical driving test or driver's theory test, is part of the motor vehicle driver's license examination. After the implementation of the Ministry of Public Security's Order No. 123, the Subject 3 test was divided into two parts: the road test and an additional safety and civics knowledge test, commonly referred to as "Subject 4," which assesses "driving ethics." Since this test is conducted after Subject 3, it is colloquially called the Subject 4 test, although officially, there is no such term as Subject 4. If you fail the Subject 4 test, you do not need to retake the previously passed subjects (Subject 1, Subject 2, or Subject 3). You can schedule a retest on your own without paying an additional fee. There are no scheduling restrictions, but the driving skills test permit is valid for three years. If the applicant fails to complete the test within this period, the results of any passed subjects will be voided.
I encountered this situation before when accompanying students for the Subject 4 exam. A temporary ID card is completely usable, as it holds the same legal validity as a regular ID card. However, pay attention to its validity period—it must still be within the effective date. To be on the safe side, it's best to call the test center in advance to confirm. Some places may also require you to bring the original household registration booklet or residence permit as supplementary proof. Remember to arrive at the test center half an hour early, as manual verification at the counter is more convenient than using self-service machines. Never use a photocopy of the temporary ID card—the original is mandatory! In my opinion, even though you can take the exam with it, it’s best to apply for a new ID card as soon as possible to avoid any hassle.
