Do I need to shift to first gear when pulling over for the parking test in Subject 3?
3 Answers
No, you can stop in whichever gear you're currently in. The method for pulling over is as follows: 1. Find the right spot: Identify a suitable parking spot ahead on the right side while checking the rearview mirror to assess if parking conditions are favorable. If there are other test vehicles ahead, wait until they've left before gradually pulling over. 2. Activate the turn signal: When preparing to pull over, if you hear the instruction sound, you must turn on the right turn signal and keep it on for at least 3 seconds before turning it off. Of course, rushing the instruction or turning off the signal too quickly would be completely wrong - remember this.
In the driving test (Subject 3), pulling over for manual transmission vehicles must be done by shifting to first gear for the safest and most reliable operation. When instructing students, I repeatedly emphasize this critical step because stopping in higher gears carries greater risks—it's prone to stalling or losing brake control, causing the car to jerk violently, which may lead to point deductions or even failing the test. The standard procedure is: after activating the right turn signal, decelerate while observing to ensure safety; once speed drops to around 15km/h, immediately shift to first gear, then fine-tune the vehicle's position to slowly approach the curb, maintaining an ideal distance within 30cm. Finally, press the clutch and brake simultaneously for a smooth stop. Shifting to first gear throughout this process leverages low-gear torque to help precisely control the car body, preventing overshooting the stopping point or instability. Regular practice cultivates good habits, leading to higher test pass rates and safer driving—beginners should never overlook this detail.
When I took the driving test for Subject 3, my instructor strictly required downshifting to first gear when pulling over to the curb, and I've maintained this habit ever since. For manual transmission vehicles, stopping directly in a high gear at the curb causes excessive speed, leading to sudden jerking, difficulty in control, or even stalling—common mistakes during tests. The key steps are: signal, decelerate, check mirrors, shift to first gear, then adjust the vehicle position. The entire process should be slow and steady for smooth execution. During practice, simulate this scenario frequently and avoid rushing to prevent mistakes right from the start—ensuring stable performance and scoring well on the test.
