Can I Take the Subject 4 Test with a Temporary ID?
3 Answers
Temporary ID can be used to take the Subject 4 test, as it holds the same legal validity as a regular ID. Simply visit any local police station, submit your household registration booklet, a recent one-inch black-and-white photo without a hat, and pay a processing fee of 10 RMB to obtain a temporary ID on the same day. The Subject 4 test consists of 50 questions, primarily 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 driving test or driver's theory exam, 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 civics knowledge test, commonly referred to as "Subject 4," which evaluates "driving ethics." Since this test is conducted after Subject 3, it is colloquially called the Subject 4 test, though it is not officially recognized as such. Failing Subject 4 does not require retaking previously passed tests (Subjects 1, 2, and 3). You can schedule a retest on your own without additional fees. There are no scheduling restrictions, but the driving skills test permit is valid for three years. If the applicant fails to complete all tests within this period, the results of any passed subjects will be voided.
I remember asking this question when I took my driver's license test last year. I successfully took the subject four exam using a temporary ID card. At that time, I had lost my official ID card and had to get a temporary one from the police station, which was only valid for one week. The day before the test, I specifically went to the DMV window to inquire, and the staff said it was no problem—as long as it was a valid ID issued by the public security authorities, it would be accepted. On the day of the test, I brought my temporary ID, appointment slip, health certificate, and other required documents. Scanning them at the entrance was all it took. However, requirements may vary slightly from place to place, so I recommend calling ahead to confirm the regulations in your area. The whole process was quite simple, so don’t worry too much—just focus on reviewing before the test, pay attention to the key points of safe driving in the question bank, and keep a relaxed mindset, which will help you pass more easily.
As a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience who has accompanied family members through the Subject 4 test, I can confirm that temporary IDs are accepted in most locations, holding the same legal validity as permanent ones—just ensure it's within the validity period and the photo is legible. My advice: double-check all required materials before heading out—bring the exam notification or app reservation record alongside your ID to avoid oversights. Should the DMV have additional requirements, they'll notify you in advance. Subject 4 focuses on theoretical knowledge, emphasizing road safety awareness; use this opportunity to refresh your understanding of traffic regulations, which benefits real-world driving. Temporary IDs don’t affect scoring—what truly matters is being mentally prepared and well-versed in the study materials.
