Can I take the Subject 4 exam with a temporary ID card?
2 Answers
A temporary ID card can be used to take the Subject 4 exam, as it holds the same legal validity as a regular ID card. Simply visit any public security bureau, submit your household registration booklet and a recent one-inch black-and-white photo without a hat, pay a processing fee of 10 RMB, and you can obtain the temporary ID card on the same day. The Subject 4 exam 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 exam or driver's theory test, is part of the motor vehicle driver's license assessment. After the implementation of the Ministry of Public Security's Order No. 123, the Subject 3 exam was divided into two parts: the road test and an additional safety and civilization knowledge test, commonly referred to as "Subject 4," which evaluates "driving ethics." Since this test is conducted after Subject 3, it is colloquially called Subject 4, although there is no official designation as such. If you fail Subject 4, you do not need to retake the previously passed subjects (Subject 1, Subject 2, Subject 3). You can schedule a retake on your own without additional fees. There are no restrictions on the number of retakes, but the driving skill test permit is valid for three years. If the applicant does not complete all exams within this period, the passed subjects will be invalidated.
I remember when I was taking my driver's license test, I happened to lose my ID card, so I applied for a temporary ID and went to sign up for the subject 4 exam. The staff at the test center checked my documents and said it was fine as long as it was within the validity period—a temporary ID is also an official proof of identity. However, they reminded me to bring my household registration book or passport as a backup, just in case there was an issue with the temporary document. I was pretty nervous myself, as it was the final step of the theoretical exam, and I had prepared so many questions. After that experience, I advised my friends that if they wanted to use a temporary ID, they should first call the local vehicle management office or driving school to confirm the specific requirements, as regulations might vary from place to place. Also, the validity period of a temporary ID is usually three months, so it's best to apply early to avoid expiration and prevent delays in the exam schedule. This is a small tip that can save everyone a lot of hassle.
