
You cannot take the Subject 4 driving test if you have lost your ID card. The test requires verification of personal identity information for entry into the driver's license public security system, so an ID card is mandatory. If you do not have an ID card, you can first apply for a temporary ID card and use it to take the test. The Subject 4 test consists of 50 questions, presented in the form of case studies, images, animations, etc., with a full score of 100 and a passing score of 90. Subject 4, also known as the theoretical 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, the Subject 3 test was divided into two parts: the road test and an additional safety and common sense test, commonly referred to as "Subject 4," which assesses "driving ethics." Since this test is conducted after Subject 3, it is commonly called the Subject 4 test, although officially, there is no such term as Subject 4. If you fail the Subject 4 test, you do not need to retake the previously passed tests (Subject 1, Subject 2, Subject 3). You can schedule a retest on your own without paying any additional fees. There are no scheduling restrictions, but the driving skills test permit is valid for three years. If the applicant does not complete the test within this period, the results of any passed subjects will be invalidated.

I'm a driving instructor who regularly guides students through exams, and I often encounter cases of lost ID cards. The Subject 4 exam requires identity verification, and in principle, you can't take the test without an ID, but don't panic. You can first apply for a temporary ID, which can usually be obtained on the same day at the local public security bureau or DMV by bringing your household registration booklet. Exam centers generally accept temporary IDs, or you can use a passport or driving school student records as substitutes. Call ahead to confirm the requirements of your test center to avoid a wasted trip. Remember to check all your documents before the exam and keep them in a fixed spot in your wallet. If you lose them, act immediately—don’t wait until exam day. Remind students to develop good habits, like keeping a backup in the car for extra safety. Paying attention to these small details ensures a smooth process—don’t underestimate how minor issues can impact major exams.

Last year when I was about to take the Subject 4 exam, I lost my ID card two days before the test and got quite startled. Later, my driving school instructor told me that bringing the household register would also work. On exam day, I arrived early at the test center to explain the situation. The staff verified my household register information and allowed me in. The process went smoothly—as long as you have other valid documents, don't give up. My advice is to prepare your items a week before the exam and check them against a list. If you lose your ID card, don’t panic immediately; apply for a temporary one or ask your driving school for help. During the exam, don’t let such issues distract you—stay focused on the questions to pass with ease. Develop good habits, like keeping a photocopy of your documents at home, just in case.

According to the driving test regulations, identity verification must be conducted with valid documents. In case of a lost ID card, temporary ID cards, passports, or police certificates can be used as substitutes, with the key being to ensure the applicant's identity consistency. Test centers will handle these situations flexibly. It is recommended to consult the local DMV hotline or website in advance to obtain the latest guidelines. Additionally, applying for a temporary certificate requires bringing relevant materials, such as a household register, to the police station for application; on the exam day, bring backup documents and try to enter the venue without giving up easily. Maintaining clean and orderly documents in daily life is crucial.


