Can I shift to neutral gear while waiting during the Subject 2 driving test?

[EstherAnn]

You cannot shift to neutral gear while waiting during the Subject 2 driving test. Throughout the Subject 2 test, only first gear and reverse gear are used. Neutral gear can only be engaged when the test is completed and the vehicle returns to the starting point. Below is a detailed introduction to the Subject 2 driving test: Overview: Subject 2, also known as the small road test, is part of the motor vehicle driver's license assessment and refers to the field driving skills test. For small vehicles (C1 and C2), the test items include five mandatory components: reversing into a parking space, parallel parking, stopping and starting on a slope, turning at a right angle, and driving through curves. Others: If you fail the Subject 2 test for the first time, you can retake it once. If you do not take the retest or fail the retest, the current test session ends, and the applicant must reschedule the test after ten days. Within the validity period of the driving skills test permit, the number of times you can reschedule the Subject 2 and Subject 3 road driving skills tests must not exceed five.

[DominicAnn]

I think it's acceptable to shift into neutral during the waiting time in the Subject 2 driving test, but it depends on the specific situation. When I was getting my driver's license, my instructor often said that neutral gear allows you to relax your left foot and avoid fatigue from prolonged clutch use. For example, when waiting at a red light or queuing on flat ground, shifting to N gear is fine and can even save some fuel. However, the key is to ensure the vehicle doesn't move—especially on slopes. If you don't press the brake or engage the handbrake, even a slight rollback can result in point deductions or even failing the test. Once during my parallel parking test, I forgot the handbrake while waiting, and the car moved slightly backward, earning me a warning—luckily, not too many points were deducted. The test environment is stressful, and the examiners are sharp-eyed, so it's crucial to develop safe habits during practice: always use neutral gear in combination with parking devices. Saving fuel is a minor concern; safety is what truly matters. Don't risk major mistakes for small conveniences.

[LondynMarie]

During my driving test for Subject Two, the instructor emphasized that using neutral gear is fine. The main advantage of neutral is convenience—it allows for a brief rest while waiting, especially during long queues to prevent foot fatigue. However, I once tried shifting to neutral on a slope, and the car slid slightly without me noticing, earning a stern look and a penalty from the examiner. While the test rules technically permit neutral gear, you must ensure the vehicle is completely stationary, so it's best to keep the foot brake ready at all times. What examiners prioritize isn't technique but safety awareness—if the car moves even slightly, it's an instant fail. A friend of mine failed because the car rolled back in neutral, which was such a waste. Practicing with neutral more often builds confidence for the actual test.

[StTimothy]

I understand that you can shift to neutral while waiting during the test, but it must be accompanied by parking measures. For example, on flat ground, the N gear can relieve fatigue; on a slope, you must press the brake or pull the handbrake to prevent slipping. The examiner pays attention to safety details, and even a slight movement can lead to point deductions.