Do I need to retake the written test when transferring to another driving school?
3 Answers
Transferring to another driving school requires retaking the written test. If you need to change driving schools, you must go to the vehicle management office to cancel the registration materials of the previous driving school. Once the materials are canceled, the previous test results become invalid. If you do not cancel the registration, you cannot enroll in another driving school. Therefore, once you change driving schools, all previous test results are considered void. The written test, also known as the theoretical driving test, is part of the motor vehicle driver's license examination. The total duration of the written test is 45 minutes, and the test consists of 100 questions, including true/false and multiple-choice questions. The maximum score is 100, with a passing score of 90. The test questions are randomly selected and combined by the computer driver examination system according to the proportion specified in the "Motor Vehicle Driver's License Work Regulations." Content of the written test: The test includes the most basic knowledge such as driving theory, road safety laws and regulations, traffic signals, traffic rules, as well as local regulations. The scheduling of the theoretical driving test is arranged by the local vehicle management offices.
I'm an ordinary person who transferred driving schools and personally experienced this. At the time, I had to move from Shanghai to Hangzhou to continue my driving lessons, and I was quite worried since I had already passed Subject 1. However, the new driving school instructor assured me that there was no need to retake it—just bringing my ID card to register would allow the system to retrieve my previous test records. I could immediately start practicing for Subject 2 without any delays. Transferring schools during driving lessons is quite common, and my coach reminded me to keep the original test certificates just in case. After transferring, my learning went smoothly, and now, having driven for three years, I feel the theoretical part is like a saved game file. The whole process requires contacting the new driving school in advance to clarify the details, then bringing the necessary documents to the traffic bureau for registration—usually, that’s all it takes. Retaking the theory test is completely unnecessary and a waste of time. Choosing a good driving school is important—don’t just focus on the price.
As a driver with years of experience, I know that when transferring driving schools, you generally don't need to retake Subject 1 because the test results are stored in the nationwide networked system. Just bring the qualification certificate issued by the original driving school to complete the transfer procedures, and the new driving school can retrieve the records to continue subsequent training. I've helped students handle similar situations due to moving or work reasons, and the transfer process was smooth. It's advisable to consult in advance to avoid being misled by some institutions that might ask for a retest to scam money, but the standard procedure is simple. Students should keep all documents safe to prevent any issues. Transferring driving schools is a normal process; don't worry about delaying progress—focusing on practicing your skills is what truly matters.