Can You Press the Brake During Subject 2 Driving Test?

[MacMaria]

You can press the brake during the Subject 2 driving test, but except for some specific test items, you cannot stop the car by pressing the brake during the test. There are some places in the Subject 2 test where you need to press the brake, but in other items, you are not allowed to stop midway, that is, the speed cannot drop to 0. The following is a related introduction to Subject 2: 1. Introduction 1: Subject 2, also known as the small road test, is part of the motor vehicle driver's license assessment and is the abbreviated name for the field driving skill test subject. 2. Introduction 2: The test items include five mandatory tests: reversing into a garage, parallel parking, stopping and starting on a slope, turning at a right angle, and driving on a curve.

[Dana]

Of course you can step on the brake. When I was taking the driving test for Subject 2, I frequently used the brake, especially during the hill start and stop section where you must brake to stop at the designated spot. I remember during my first driving practice, the instructor repeatedly taught me to gently press the brake to control the speed and avoid slamming it suddenly, as that could stall the car and lead to point deductions. During parallel parking and reversing into the garage, you also need to use the brake to move slowly, since the exam focuses on safe operation. I think beginners shouldn’t be nervous—the brake is your good helper; just learn to coordinate it with the clutch and slow down before tackling steep slopes. During practice, I made it a habit to brake smoothly, and after passing the test, I felt my overall skills had improved. In short, don’t brake randomly—use it when necessary.

[VanCora]

Applying the brakes is essential. I often remind my students during driving lessons that the brake pedal is indispensable for Subject 2. For instance, in the hill start exercise, you need to use the brake to hold the car on the slope; when reversing, if the speed is too fast, a gentle brake application is also necessary. The key lies in having a delicate foot feel—avoid pressing too hard and causing the engine to stall, otherwise points will be deducted. I've noticed that most mistakes occur from braking too harshly, so I recommend practicing the coordination between the clutch and brake in advance. The exam rules permit and even encourage the use of brakes—it's not a forbidden zone as long as you maintain a safe distance and control your speed. In fact, good braking technique can prevent many issues, such as the precise adjustments needed for parallel parking. With more practice, it becomes second nature—mastering the brake is crucial for passing.

[Caroline]

There's absolutely no problem with stepping on the brake during the Subject 2 test. As an experienced driver looking back at the exam, I understand the importance of braking. Tasks like parking at designated spots and reversing all require speed control through braking, otherwise the car may go too fast and cross boundaries or hit obstacles. The key is not to brake abruptly—just press gently and smoothly while coordinating with the clutch to prevent stalling. This is perfectly normal during the test; the examiner won't deduct points just for using the brake, as long as the operation is smooth and safe. I've even seen people lose points due to uncontrolled speed from not braking, so brake when necessary.