Do I need to pay for the second attempt if I failed the first driving test (Subject 2)?

[SanDylan]

You need to pay for the second attempt if you failed the first driving test (Subject 2). Introduction: The retake fee mainly includes the examination fee charged by the vehicle management office and the training fee from the driving school. The retake fee covers the driving school training cost. Standards vary by region, so you should consult your enrolled driving school for specific details. Other regulations: The vehicle management office shall accept and arrange the test according to the scheduled date if the applicant meets the requirements for the motor vehicle driver's license application. If the applicant cannot attend the test at the scheduled time, they should apply to cancel the appointment one day in advance. If the applicant fails to attend the test at the scheduled time, the test will be judged as a failure.

[Sawyer]

As someone who has gone through three make-up exams, I have a lot to say about this! The fee rules for driving schools vary greatly across regions, but you’ll generally have to pay. When I was learning to drive in Guangzhou, I paid 280 yuan for the make-up exam, which included a 190 yuan exam fee to the test center and a 90 yuan coaching fee to the instructor. Some driving schools also include a venue simulation fee, adding up to 400 or 500 yuan in total. I suggest you ask your instructor directly for a detailed breakdown of the fees to avoid being overcharged. If you’ve paid a so-called 'guaranteed pass fee,' check the contract terms—some driving schools waive the fee for the first two make-up exams. But the most frustrating part is the waiting time—you’ll have to wait at least ten days to half a month for a make-up exam. Use this time to practice your weak spots at the venue, especially high-risk failure areas like right-angle turns and hill starts.

[VonCooper]

From a coach's perspective, the matter is straightforward: retake fees are almost unavoidable. The exam center's mandatory retake fee of 170-300 RMB is a fixed cost, and most driving schools will additionally charge for vehicle wear and tear. Among the students I've coached, those who fail Subject 2 typically have to pay an extra 300-400 RMB. The key is not to rush into paying—first, return to the driving school to review the exam footage. Many students fail parallel parking due to perspective errors caused by improperly adjusted seats. I recommend recording your practice sessions with a phone to compare and develop a better sense of the car's position. Some coaches may push VIP retake packages, but these are unnecessary. Focus on mastering the reference points where you frequently made mistakes during mock exams—that’s what truly matters.

[JamesMarie]

Policies indeed vary by region. When I took the exam in Beijing, the retake fee was 320 yuan all-inclusive, but my friend in Chengdu only paid 220 yuan for the exam fee. Two important reminders: first, do not pay directly on the 12123 APP—confirm with the driving school whether the fee includes training; second, be mindful of the attempt limit! Failing five times means reapplying, and the nearly 5,000 yuan loss is much more painful than the retake fee. Also, avoid scheduling exams on Monday mornings during peak hours, as the pass rate tends to be lower when the examiners have just started work. When practicing, remember to place a coin on the steering wheel to practice the half-clutch technique—it’s especially useful for hill starts.

[McLyla]

The cost should be broken down: the DMV charges a fixed retake fee, typically around 150-300 yuan nationwide; driving schools have more room for negotiation, so bargaining is advised. Last time, I managed to cut 200 yuan off the 'simulation system usage fee.' More importantly, mental preparation is key—many students get even more nervous during their second attempt. Chewing gum before getting in the car can actually help ease anxiety, and reciting the mantra 'turn signal—seatbelt—adjust mirrors' before starting can prevent silly mistakes. On the technical side, focus on speed control—using the clutch to manage speed is more stable than relying on the brake. Don’t forget to check the weather at the test site; if it rains, prepare tissues in advance as mirrors can get blurry.

[AdrielLee]

The most crucial thing is to clarify the fee structure. The examination center's fees are transparent and can be checked on the local DMV website; driving schools may include hidden costs. Remember to ask for receipts! Some students were charged a 'remedial coaching fee' only to find it wasn't listed in the contract. From a time-cost perspective, retakes require at least a two-week interval, so it's advisable to focus on weak areas during this period. For example, if you keep hitting the line on S-turns, search for 'three-point alignment method' tutorial videos online. Economically speaking, if reapplying costs over 5,000, then even a 500 retake fee is worth it. But be aware that failing five times means retaking the test in another city, which incurs higher accommodation and travel expenses.