Do You Need to Use Turn Signals in the Subject 2 Driving Test?
2 Answers
There are a total of 6 instances where turn signals are required in the Subject 2 test: When starting the vehicle, turn on the left turn signal; When starting on the slope, turn on the left turn signal; During parallel parking, turn on the right turn signal when the vehicle passes the parking spot and stops 30 cm from the curb before preparing to reverse; Before shifting into reverse gear during parallel parking, turn on the left turn signal because the steering wheel will be turned fully to the right, causing the front of the car to shift left; Before exiting the parking spot during parallel parking, shift into drive gear and turn on the left turn signal, then turn it off promptly after exiting; When entering the right-angle turn area, turn on the left turn signal and turn it off promptly after completing the turn. Penalties for incorrect use of turn signals are as follows: Failing to use or incorrectly using turn signals before starting, turning, changing lanes, overtaking, or parking results in a 10-point deduction. Turning the steering wheel within 3 seconds of activating the turn signal before starting, turning, changing lanes, overtaking, or parking results in a 10-point deduction. The Subject 2 test is scored out of 100 points, with criteria for failure, 20-point deductions, 10-point deductions, and 5-point deductions. The test is passed under the following conditions: ① For large passenger vehicles, trailers, city buses, medium-sized passenger vehicles, and large trucks, a score of 90 or above is required; ② For other vehicle types, a score of 80 or above is required. The C1 and C2 license tests include five mandatory items: reversing into a parking space, parallel parking, slope parking and starting (canceled for C2), right-angle turns, and curve driving (commonly known as S-turns). Some regions also include a sixth item: highway toll card collection. The A1, A2, A3, B1, and B2 license tests include: pole test, slope parking and starting, parallel parking, single-plank bridge crossing, curve driving, right-angle turns, narrow gate passing, continuous obstacle passing, bumpy road driving, narrow road U-turns, as well as simulated highway driving, continuous sharp mountain turns, tunnels, rainy (foggy) conditions, slippery roads, and emergency handling.
With over a decade of experience in driver training, I frequently guide students through the Subject 2 exam. Using turn signals is absolutely mandatory—it's a strict requirement during test maneuvers like reverse parking or parallel parking, where any directional movement must be accompanied by signaling. When starting off, whether turning the car left or right, you must activate the corresponding turn signal and turn it off after coming to a complete stop—the rules are stringent. I’ve seen many students lose points or even retake the exam simply because they forgot this step, which is truly regrettable. Developing this habit isn’t just about passing the test; it’s about protecting yourself and others—road safety starts with the details. During practice, I recommend reminding yourself to check the signals with every turn. Simulating exam conditions helps build muscle memory, reducing errors under stress. In the long run, this fosters good driving habits and lowers accident rates.
