Do I need to downshift when passing a green light in Subject 3?

[DelJoseph]

You need to slow down. The test content includes the following four parts: 1. Subject 1: Road traffic rules, traffic signals, handling of traffic safety violations and accidents, regulations on the application and use of motor vehicle driving licenses, motor vehicle registration, and other road traffic safety laws, regulations, and rules; 2. Subject 2: Testing reverse parking, assessing the mastery of motor vehicle driving skills and the ability to judge the spatial position of the vehicle; 3. Subject 3: Assessing the ability to drive a motor vehicle on the road to complete test items, comply with traffic laws and regulations, and comprehensively control the vehicle; proper use of lights, horns, seat belts, and other devices; correct observation and judgment of road traffic conditions; 4. Subject 4: Extracting knowledge related to safe and civilized driving from Subject 1, as well as safe driving skills under complex conditions and emergency handling in critical situations, conducted after the "Subject 3" actual road driving test to further assess the candidate's level of traffic awareness.

[KateLynn]

In the driving test (Subject 3), I often notice examinees have misconceptions about gear operation when passing through green lights. There's no need to deliberately downshift at green lights since they signal permission to proceed; the gear should match the vehicle speed. If the speed permits, maintaining second or third gear is sufficient. Downshifting to first or second gear is only necessary when preparing to decelerate or stop, such as before a red light or in complex road conditions. Unnecessary downshifting indicates unstable driving and may lead to point deductions by the examiner. Remember, the key at green lights is to observe traffic and pass through at a steady speed. Practice speed-gear matching more during training to avoid nervous operations during the test. Over time, this will become a natural habit—safe and efficient.

[DelKayden]

Safe driving is always my top priority. Downshifting at a green light is not a good idea, as it's meant for deceleration scenarios; a green light indicates safe passage, so the gear should be maintained or slightly accelerated. Downshifting can cause a sudden surge in engine RPM, increasing fuel consumption or causing jerks, which affects control. During the driving test (Subject 3), the examiner evaluates the smoothness of operations; unnecessary downshifting appears redundant. It's recommended to focus on observing intersections and adjusting gears according to speed. If the road conditions are complex, anticipation is more important than downshifting. Developing good habits can reduce the risk of accidents and make driving smoother.

[LilyFitz]

I also struggled with a similar issue during my driving test for Subject 3. The instructor clearly stated: when passing through a green light, there's no need to downshift; just maintain your current gear or upshift as needed. For example, you can proceed steadily in second gear. Downshifting is only considered when you need to stop before an intersection or when encountering an obstacle. During the test, pay attention to observation and don't let gear operations distract you; go confidently through the green light without unnecessary downshifting to avoid trouble. With more practice, you'll master the rhythm and impress the examiner with your proficiency.