Can I Take the Driving Test on Weekends?
2 Answers
No, the driving test is conducted at the driving test center, which follows the national statutory holidays for rest. The driving test center is under the jurisdiction of the traffic police, who are governed by the Ministry of Public Security, which in turn is managed by the government. In May 1995, China implemented a six-day workweek system. Although tests cannot be taken on weekends, driving schools remain open for practice sessions. Currently, there are four subjects in the driving test. Below is an introduction to each subject: 1. Subject 1 primarily assesses basic knowledge of road traffic safety laws and regulations, traffic signals, and driving rules. It also includes content on safe and civilized driving requirements, safe driving skills in complex conditions, and emergency handling, which were previously part of Subject 1 but are now separated as the safe and civilized driving knowledge test in Subject 3, conducted after the actual road driving test. 2. Subject 2 includes five mandatory test items: reversing into a parking space, starting on a slope and stopping at a designated point, parallel parking, curve driving, and right-angle turns. 3. Subject 3 covers preparations before starting, starting, passing intersections, obeying traffic signals, driving according to road markings, changing lanes, meeting other vehicles, overtaking, and stopping at designated points. It includes 16 road driving skills: preparation before starting, starting, driving straight, changing lanes, passing intersections, pulling over, crossing pedestrian crossings, passing school zones, passing bus stops, meeting other vehicles, overtaking, making U-turns, night driving, shifting gears, turning left at intersections, and turning right at intersections. 4. Subject 4 is the safe and civilized driving knowledge test, which focuses on safe and civilized driving requirements, safe driving knowledge in adverse weather and complex road conditions, emergency handling methods such as tire blowouts, and post-accident procedures. This written test is conducted within one day after passing the road test and can be taken an unlimited number of times for free.
As someone who frequently helps friends with driving-related matters, I remember that taking the driver's license test on weekends is feasible in many cities. For example, where I live, the testing centers offer weekend appointment options, whether it's the theory test or the road test. Last week, my neighbor's child passed the theory part on a Saturday, which was quite convenient as it didn't interfere with their studies. However, it's important to note that slots are limited, so you need to book online one or two weeks in advance, and they may not be open on holidays. I recommend checking the local transportation bureau's official website, entering your area to see the specific schedule, or calling directly to confirm and avoid a wasted trip. Some places only offer half-day testing on weekends, so planning your departure time is crucial. Overall, if you can secure a slot, weekends are a great option, especially for working professionals or students.
