Can I use an electronic ID for the Subject 1 test?
4 Answers
For the test, you need to bring your ID card. Electronic IDs cannot be used for the test. If you don't have an ID card, you can apply for a temporary ID card, which holds the same validity as a regular ID card. According to the "Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driving Licenses," you can take the Subject 1 test twice on the same day. If you fail the first attempt, you can retake it for free. If you fail the second attempt, the Subject 1 test will be terminated, and you can only reschedule it after ten days. The Subject 1 test consists of 100 questions, including single-choice and true/false questions, with each question worth 1 point, totaling 100 points. If you answer 11 questions incorrectly during the test, the system will automatically submit the test and end the session. The Subject 1 test is computer-based and lasts 45 minutes. Subject 1 test content: Regulations on driving licenses and motor vehicle management; Road traffic conditions and regulations; Road traffic safety violations and penalties; Regulations on road traffic accident handling; Basic knowledge of motor vehicles; Local regulations; Knowledge of braking systems and safety devices for large and medium-sized passenger and freight vehicles; Specialized knowledge for wheeled self-propelled machinery, trams, and trolleybuses. Subject 1 test precautions: Candidates should dress appropriately for the test; no slippers are allowed. Electronic devices and bags are not permitted in the examination room. Bring your ID card and queue to enter the waiting hall. Observe the precautions and procedures on the large screen, and store personal belongings in lockers before entering the examination room. Upon entering, verify your identity at the assigned station and begin the test. Ensure the camera is aligned with you and follow test discipline. If you fail the first attempt, you can retake it the same day. If you fail again, you must pay to reschedule. After completion, queue to collect your score report and sign it. Failure to sign will render the test invalid. There is no limit to the number of times you can reschedule the Subject 1 test. Each subject can be taken once, with one retake allowed if you fail. If you do not take the retake or fail it again, the test will be terminated, and you must reschedule. For Subject 2 and Subject 3, there are only five attempts. Subject 2 and Subject 3 tests can be rescheduled after ten days. If you fail the Subject 3 safe driving knowledge test, the previously passed road driving skills test results remain valid. The driving test consists of three subjects: Subject 1, Subject 2, and Subject 3. Subject 1 refers to the road traffic safety laws, regulations, and related knowledge test. Subject 2 refers to the field driving skills test. Subject 3 is divided into two parts: road driving skills and safe driving knowledge test. The safe driving knowledge test is conducted after Subject 3, so it is commonly referred to as Subject 4. However, the official term (as per the Ministry of Public Security's Order No. 123) does not include "Subject 4."
When I was taking the subject one test, I initially thought about being lazy and using the electronic ID on my phone, thinking it would be quick and convenient. But when I actually got to the test center, I realized this wouldn’t work. The staff directly told me that I had to bring the original ID card—no photocopies or electronic versions—because the exam system needs to scan the physical card to verify identity information and prevent any fake details. That time, I almost couldn’t enter because I forgot the original, but luckily my roommate helped bring it over. Later, when chatting with others who had taken the test, they all said most places don’t accept electronic IDs, except for a few pilot areas. So I suggest you check your documents in advance and bring the original to the exam—don’t end up scrambling at the last minute like I did. You can keep an eye on policy changes, but for now, playing it safe is the most important.
Regarding whether an electronic ID can be used for the subject one test, the actual situation I understand is: official regulations usually require candidates to bring their original ID card for identity verification. While electronic IDs are accepted in some government services, driving tests involve strict management by the public security department. In most cases, physical card scanning devices are needed to read the chip information for verification. The reason is to prevent cheating and ensure accurate identity matching. If you're unsure about local policies, it's best to consult your driving school instructor or the local DMV hotline before the test—they will provide clear guidance. Overall, preparing the original document is the safest approach. Avoid relying on the electronic version to prevent unnecessary trips and delays in your test schedule. Accumulating such knowledge in advance can help you smoothly pass the driving test stages.
Never use an electronic ID for the Subject 1 test. Most test centers explicitly require the original ID card, and presenting an electronic version may result in denied entry, causing you to miss the exam. If you realize you brought the wrong ID after entering the test center, you'll have to reschedule, wasting both time and money. When I took my driver's test, I witnessed similar situations, and everyone agreed that checking your physical ID before leaving home is a must. Currently, electronic verification isn't widely adopted, so safety comes first. My advice is straightforward: bring the original ID—don't cut corners.
