Can I Use First Gear All the Time in Subject Three?

[VonGemma]

Subject Three cannot be completed using only first gear. This is because the assessment criteria for Subject Three includes gear shifting operations. Below are the key points to note for the Subject Three road test: 1. Fingerprint: If a candidate fails the fingerprint verification, they must exit the vehicle to re-register their fingerprint before rejoining the test queue. 2. Score: If a candidate's score falls below the passing threshold during the test, the system will automatically prompt them to pull over. After completing the pull-over maneuver, the system will instruct the candidate to proceed with the next test segment. 3. Distance: Once all mandatory test items are completed and the vehicle has traveled over 3 kilometers, the system will automatically prompt the candidate to pull over. Upon hearing the pull-over instruction, candidates should safely position their vehicle parallel to a clearly visible curb (or solid road edge line) along the test route. After confirming safety, complete the pull-over maneuver. The system will then announce the test results via voice prompt.

[DiMiranda]

During the driving test (Subject 3), I've also pondered this question—whether first gear can be used throughout the entire test. After all, as a beginner, simpler seems better. However, in actual practice, this approach is completely unworkable. First gear is primarily used for starting, when the vehicle speed is very low. If you keep driving in first gear, the engine RPM will soar, causing constant buzzing noises. This not only increases fuel consumption but also harms the engine, potentially leading to overheating and accelerated wear of components. If the examiner notices you aren't shifting gears, they'll deduct points or fail you outright, as Subject 3 specifically assesses your ability to smoothly shift gears and coordinate vehicle control. Normally, you should shift to second gear when the speed reaches around 20 km/h. The test is designed to simulate real-world driving, and developing good habits is crucial for safe driving later on. I recommend that beginners practice gear-shifting timing more, listening to the engine sound or watching the speedometer to judge when to shift.

[IsabelleMarie]

Having driven for decades, I can tell you that always using first gear is pure nonsense. First gear provides high torque but is only suitable for starting and slow uphill climbs. If you keep it in first gear when the speed increases, the engine will rev excessively, wasting fuel and damaging the car. Not only does it wear out the transmission system, but it will also definitely cause you to fail the driving test. The examiner is looking for your ability to handle the vehicle flexibly. Failing to shift gears promptly shows that you are not proficient in road driving rules. The third part of the test assesses realism—driving at low speeds on highways is not only prone to accidents but also limits visibility and slows reaction time. In daily driving, developing proper gear-shifting habits protects the vehicle and saves fuel. For example, on city roads, you should upshift as the speed increases. I always remind beginners not to take shortcuts—this habit harms both people and cars.

[VonJack]

Having taught countless students, I've seen many who tried to get through the test using only first gear, with unsatisfactory results. The reason you can't stick to first gear in Subject 3 is simple: the exam rules clearly assess gear-shifting skills. First gear is only for starting; once speed exceeds 20 km/h, you must shift to second gear, otherwise the car will shake and the examiner will deduct points. Pro tip: listen for engine sound changes to shift more smoothly. Practice more on simulated routes to develop automatic gear-shifting habits—don't be lazy. This issue concerns both safety and pass rates.