Can the Turn Signal Be Activated in Advance for Subject 3?
2 Answers
No, it cannot be activated in advance. In the Subject 3 driving test, failure to use the turn signal correctly will result in an automatic disqualification by the computer. Activating the turn signal in the correct direction in advance is not only a responsible action for your own safety but also for the safety of others' lives and property. For Subject 3, the use of turn signals must be noted in the following aspects: starting, turning, making a U-turn, overtaking, changing lanes, and parking. There are two methods for starting: one is to first activate the left turn signal, then press the clutch and shift to first gear; the other is to press the clutch, shift to first gear, and then activate the left turn signal. The turn signal should not be activated last, as this may result in the turn signal not being maintained for at least 3 seconds. The test explicitly states that failing to maintain the turn signal for at least 3 seconds during starting will result in disqualification. Subject 3 includes left and right turns as two test items. Regardless of the direction of the turn, the turn signal must not be forgotten. It is advisable to activate the corresponding turn signal immediately after the voice announcement for the subject and ensure it does not turn off during the turn, maintaining it for at least 3 seconds. If the turn signal turns off midway, it should be reactivated promptly. It is recommended to activate the turn signal early, as this not only alerts vehicles and pedestrians in advance but also prevents forgetting to activate it later due to busy hands and feet. The U-turn item is similar to turning and other assessment items. After the voice announcement, first activate the left turn signal, maintain it for at least 3 seconds, and then perform other actions to avoid being too late or forgetting to activate the turn signal. Activating the turn signal before overtaking is crucial. Forgetting to do so is considered improper operation and can easily lead to accidents. During Subject 3, the turn signal should be activated immediately after the voice announcement, ensuring it is maintained for at least 3 seconds. Additionally, do not forget to honk the horn, check the rearview mirror, and look back for safety observations. After completing the overtaking and changing to the left lane, immediately activate the right turn signal, maintain it for 3 seconds, and then return to the original lane to complete the overtaking item. Similar to overtaking, the turn signal is also very important when changing lanes. The operation is the same as overtaking, except there is no need to return to the original lane. Overtaking can be viewed as two lane changes. When the voice announcement instructs to pull over, first activate the right turn signal and maintain it for at least 3 seconds before performing other actions.
In the Subject 3 driving test, it is indeed necessary to signal in advance because the test requires the turn signal to be on for at least 3 seconds before turning the steering wheel. When I was instructing students, I found that many people tend to signal only when they reach the intersection, leaving insufficient time. For example, the right turn signal should be activated about 150 meters before the turn, allowing both buffer time to observe traffic conditions and avoiding last-minute panic. However, signaling too early is also problematic. One student signaled 200 meters before the turn and was failed by the examiner for interfering with the judgment of vehicles behind. The best practice is to signal 30-50 meters in advance, mentally counting '001, 002, 003' before turning the steering wheel. Don’t forget that this principle also applies to lane changes—after signaling, always check the rearview mirror to confirm safety, otherwise, you’ll still lose points for signaling without checking the road.
