Differences Between Driving Test Subject 1 and Subject 4

[Teresa]

The main differences between Subject 1 and Subject 4 include: the number of test questions, question types, content distribution, and focus areas. The information is based on the "Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driving Licenses." Number of Test Questions: The most obvious difference between Subject 1 and Subject 4 is the number of test questions. Subject 1 has 100 questions, while Subject 4 only has 50. For Subject 1, the test automatically submits if more than 10 questions are answered incorrectly, whereas for Subject 4, the test submits after 6 incorrect answers. Question Types: Subject 1 consists of 100 questions, each worth 1 point, with a total test duration of 45 minutes. The question types are true/false and single-choice questions, with a full score of 100. Subject 4 has 50 questions, each worth 2 points, and the test duration is also 45 minutes. The questions are presented in the form of case studies, images, animations, etc., and include true/false, single-choice, and multiple-choice questions, with a full score of 100. Focus Areas: Subject 1 primarily assesses basic road driving knowledge, while Subject 4 focuses on safe and civilized driving practices. In simple terms, Subject 1 tests how to drive, whereas Subject 4 tests how to drive safely. Although the difference is just one word ("safety"), the emphasis is entirely different. Content Distribution: Subject 1 test content breakdown: 20% on driving license and motor vehicle regulations, 25% on road conditions and traffic rules, 25% on traffic violations and penalties, 10% on traffic accident handling, 10% on basic vehicle knowledge, and 10% on local regulations. Subject 4 test content breakdown: 20% on safe driving practices, 18% on civilized driving practices, 8% on comprehensive application of traffic signals in real scenarios, 16% on driving in adverse weather and complex road conditions, 12% on emergency avoidance, 6% on case studies of typical accidents, 10% on accident rescue and hazardous material handling, and 10% on local test questions. There is no limit to the number of attempts for Subject 1 and Subject 4. If a candidate fails, they can reschedule the test. Each scheduled test offers two attempts. If both attempts are unsuccessful, the candidate must retake the test until they pass. Both Subject 1 and Subject 4 are theoretical exams and are part of the motor vehicle driving license assessment. The driving test consists of three subjects: Subject 1, Subject 2, and Subject 3. Subject 1 refers to the examination on traffic safety laws, regulations, and related knowledge. Subject 2 refers to the field driving skills test. Subject 3 is divided into two parts: road driving skills and the safe and civilized driving knowledge test. The safe and civilized 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."

[LeLayla]

I recently passed my driver's license test and have a deep understanding of the differences between Subject 1 and Subject 4. Subject 1 mainly tests theoretical knowledge, such as traffic rules, road sign recognition, and speed limits—all basic content consisting entirely of single-choice or multiple-choice questions. You must answer at least 90% correctly on the computer to pass. It's more like a textbook knowledge test, requiring memorization of many rules. Subject 4, conducted after the road test, is called the Safe and Civilized Driving Knowledge Exam and is also computer-based. However, it focuses on application: for example, reactions in emergencies, pedestrian right-of-way rules, and handling severe weather conditions. The questions are more flexible, often involving situational cases, and the passing score is higher. Personally, I feel Subject 1 lays the foundation, while Subject 4 builds the solid walls—the latter directly influences driving ethics and safety habits. Mastering Subject 4 makes driving on the road much more reassuring, so never overlook the details.