Failed the Subject 2 Test Three Times, Losing Confidence to Retake. What Should I Do?
3 Answers
Subject 2 can be scheduled up to 5 times, with an additional retake opportunity on the spot, totaling 10 chances. The key to passing Subject 2 lies in extensive practice and adhering to standard procedures. Therefore, failing three times is not a big deal. What you need to do now is practice intensively before the test. If you can pass 8 out of 10 practice runs, you're ready to retake the exam. Here's an introduction to Subject 2: Subject 2, also known as the small road test, is part of the motor vehicle driver's license assessment, specifically the field driving skills test. For small vehicles C1 and C2, the test items include five mandatory components: reversing into a garage, parallel parking, stopping and starting on a slope, turning at a right angle, and driving through curves (commonly known as S-turns).
I also failed my driving test several times back then, so I completely understand how you feel now. After failing the third time, I didn’t dare touch the steering wheel for a whole month. But later, I realized the key is to identify the root cause of the problem. Is it hitting the line during reverse parking or stalling on the slope start? Each test item has its own workaround techniques—for example, for the hill start, remember the rhythm of lifting the clutch until the car shakes before releasing the handbrake. I suggest asking your instructor for targeted training, spending a full day at the driving school repeatedly practicing your weak spots, and recording your mistakes on video for review. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself mentally—just treat it as familiarizing yourself with the test site. When I finally passed on my fourth attempt, I noticed there were even some veterans who had been practicing for two years among the candidates who failed before me.
Failing three times can indeed be discouraging, but it shows you're seriously tackling the challenges. I have a friend who failed the second driving test four times before realizing the issue was improperly adjusted seats and mirrors. Don't rush off after each test—ask the examiner where you lost points. Mentally visualizing the test route beforehand is particularly helpful; close your eyes before bed and go through the entire test process three times. I recommend bringing a mint into the test center—sucking on one when nervous can help calm your nerves. In fact, over 70% of learners need more than two attempts. What's important is treating each failure as an experience upgrade.
