Can You Pass Subject 3 Without Using Fifth Gear?
2 Answers
You can pass Subject 3 without using fifth gear, as shifting into fifth gear is relatively difficult for beginners. Below are relevant details about the Subject 3 road test: Gear requirements: After starting, press the accelerator once and shift up one gear. First gear must not exceed 2000 RPM. Second gear must not exceed 2500 RPM. Third gear should maintain between 20 km/h and 40 km/h. Fourth gear should maintain between 30 km/h and 50 km/h. (Subject 3 allows speeds above 40 km/h only in fifth gear.) Therefore, fourth gear should be kept between 30 and 40 km/h. Test content: Starting the vehicle, left and right turns and U-turns, passing bus stops, crossing pedestrian crosswalks, passing school zones, gear shifting operations, lane changes, overtaking, driving in a straight line, navigating traffic lights, and pulling over to park.
I'm a driving instructor who takes students through the Category 3 test route daily. Whether you can pass without using 5th gear depends on regional standards—our area requires completing a 5th-gear operation at least once. The test route has signage marking the gear-shifting zones; miss them, and you're done. Last time, a male student drove to the finish line only to realize he'd never engaged 5th gear—an instant 100-point deduction. Truth is, 5th gear primarily tests shift smoothness; just maintain 40-50 km/h. Practice coordinated hand-foot movements instead of staring at the dashboard during shifts—examiners hate that. Nervous? Remember: depress the clutch fully before shifting, then ease off the clutch while gently applying throttle. Exam cars have electronic sensors—half-hearted attempts will fail you.
