Can I take the Subject 4 exam with just an ID card?
3 Answers
For Subject 4, you can take the exam with just an ID card. The Subject 4 exam consists of 50 questions, primarily presented in the form of case studies, images, and animations. The maximum score is 100, with a passing score of 90. Subject 4, also known as the Subject 4 theory test 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, Subject 3 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 commonly called Subject 4, although officially there is no such designation as Subject 4. 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 retest on your own, and no additional fees are required for the retest. 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 become invalid.
On the day I took the Subject 4 test last time, I was so absent-minded that I only brought my ID card to the exam center. While queuing at the entrance, the staff carefully checked my documents. Fortunately, my ID card was still valid, so I got in smoothly. But I heard that some test centers have stricter requirements—if you forget to bring your appointment SMS or driving school student ID, you might be stopped from taking the test. That time, I asked my instructor in advance, and he said the ID card is essential, but it’s better to also bring the electronic notification on your phone or a printed copy. The test went well, but it would be such a waste to miss the opportunity just because of incomplete documents. Before the test, I always advise my friends to download the driving test app and double-check the requirements—having a backup plan is always wise.
A while ago, my neighbor Xiao Wang went to take the fourth subject of the driving test. His mind was full of theoretical knowledge, and he only took his ID card when he left home. While waiting at the test center, someone was asked to show their reservation code even though they only had their ID card. Fortunately, he had a screenshot saved on his phone. After the test, he cheerfully said that he would remind everyone to bring all necessary items in the future and not just rely on the ID card. Those small details, like the student ID or materials issued by the driving school, can help avoid unexpected situations. If the documents are insufficient, the examiner might sometimes make allowances, but it’s always more reassuring to prepare an extra set. I often like to share these experiences in the community group to help others avoid unnecessary detours.
