Do I need to slow down and shift to second gear when going straight at an intersection in Subject 3?
3 Answers
You need to slow down when going straight at an intersection in Subject 3, but whether to shift to second gear depends on the vehicle speed, as there is no mandatory requirement. The principle for passing through an intersection is: first slow down, second look around, and third proceed, as long as the actions are properly executed. Correct operation method for going straight at an intersection in Subject 3: Approximately 120 meters before reaching the intersection, the voice prompt will automatically indicate the direction of travel. After hearing the prompt "Go straight at the intersection ahead," first slow down, observe the traffic conditions in all directions, and pay attention to yielding to pedestrians and vehicles with the right of way. When you hear the prompt "Pedestrians crossing," you must brake and stop to wait. Do not slow down or keep honking, otherwise you will lose 100 points. The examinee should choose the appropriate lane according to the lane guidance arrow and proceed as directed by the traffic signal. Before passing the stop line at the intersection, there should be a deceleration action or the speed should be controlled below 35 km/h. When going straight through the intersection, observe the traffic conditions on the left and right. Do not stop the vehicle inside the intersection. Gear and speed matching requirements for Subject 3: 1st gear is used for normal starting, with a speed generally around 10 km/h. 2nd gear is a transitional gear for acceleration after starting or for low-speed driving, with a speed generally around 20 km/h. 3rd gear is used for speeds between 20-40 km/h, commonly used for urban driving. 4th gear can be used for speeds between 40-60 km/h. 5th gear is used for speeds above 60 km/h.
I've been teaching the driving test Subject 3 for several years, and students often ask whether they need to slow down and shift to second gear when going straight through an intersection. The answer is absolutely yes. This is one of the exam standards because intersections have complex traffic flows. Reducing speed to around 20 km/h and shifting to second gear allows you to better observe traffic lights, pedestrians, and vehicle movements, avoiding the risk of losing control. Higher gears at faster speeds make it harder to react in time, often leading to mistakes and failing the test. I always remind students to gently brake in advance, reduce to an appropriate speed, and then shift gears—don’t rush. This not only helps you pass the test but also cultivates safe driving habits. In real-world driving, this habit can reduce accidents. More simulated practice makes the test easier. Remember, details determine success or failure.
Just finished the road test (Subject 3), and I truly experienced the importance of slowing down and shifting to second gear when going straight through intersections. My instructor drilled this into me repeatedly: brake early to reduce speed, then shift smoothly into second gear for stable passage. Though nervous at the time, executing these steps properly allowed me to focus on observing traffic from both sides without panicking. Some examinees failed immediately for skipping this crucial step—regrettable indeed. My advice for beginners: don’t fear going slow; steadiness is key during the test. This technique proves equally valuable in daily driving scenarios like traffic jams or sudden pedestrian crossings. By repeatedly practicing these maneuvers on Subject 3 routes until they become second nature, the test flows much more naturally. Master speed control, and safety clearance follows.
