Can I start practicing driving only after passing the first subject of the driving test?

[BennettRose]

You need to pass the first subject of the driving test and obtain a learning driving certificate before you can start practicing driving. When learning to drive on the road, applicants should carry the learning driving certificate with them, use a coach car or a self-learning vehicle marked with a special driving practice identifier, and practice under the guidance of a coach or a designated instructor with the special driving practice identifier, following the routes and times specified by the traffic management department of the public security organ. Here is some additional information: Relevant regulations: According to Article 38 of the "Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driving Licenses", applicants learning to drive on training grounds and roads must obtain a learning driving certificate as required. The learning driving certificate is valid for three years, and applicants must complete the second and third subjects of the driving test within the validity period. If the tests are not completed within the validity period, the passed subjects will be invalidated.

[McEmma]

As a novice who just finished driving school, based on my personal experience, you can only officially start practical driving training after passing the Subject 1 test. When I enrolled, the driving instructor emphasized that you must first pass the Subject 1 theory exam before proceeding to Subject 2 driving practice. The reason is simple: Subject 1 tests traffic rules, safety knowledge, and basic driving theory. Only after mastering these can you safely begin practical training, which helps avoid accidents and improves learning efficiency. Throughout the process, I previewed the theory lessons in advance, scheduled the instructor immediately after passing the exam, and seamlessly transitioned into the driving practice phase—it felt quite reasonable. Practicing driving without passing Subject 1 is not only dangerous but may also violate driving test regulations and delay overall progress. My suggestion is to focus on preparing for Subject 1 before driving practice—using apps to practice questions can achieve twice the result with half the effort.

[VanCayden]

From the perspective of long-term interaction with driving schools, it is a mandatory rule that you can only start practical driving training after passing the theory test (Subject 1). Traffic regulations require driving schools to arrange on-road training only after students obtain their driving study permits. This is primarily for safety considerations: if someone starts driving without even passing the basic theory test, they might not understand fundamental road signs, which could easily lead to accidents. I've seen some people who were curious and tried driving before passing Subject 1, but were strictly stopped by instructors. Actually, preparing for Subject 1 isn't difficult—just spending half an hour daily practicing questions can help you pass within a few days. After that, you can focus on driving practice and improve your skills more smoothly. Overall, this process protects both students and road safety.

[Parra]

As a young trainee who just went through this process, you can only start practicing driving after passing the Theory Test (Subject 1). The driving school instructor clearly stated that no one is allowed to get behind the wheel before passing the theoretical exam, as they worry newbies might drive recklessly without knowing traffic rules. Now that I've passed, I've immediately started Subject 2 training, and it feels quite fun. During the preparation period, I could only study books and use simulation apps, but after passing, the coach directly arranged on-site practice, and I got the hang of it quickly. Remember to book the Theory Test early and don't procrastinate—passing it sooner means you can start practicing earlier and save time. Overall, this rule ensures progressive learning with safety as the top priority.