
Since August 24, 2021, the motor vehicle driver's license test has resumed in Changde City. Introduction to the Driver's License Test: The driver's license test is a qualification examination organized by the Vehicle Management Office of the Public Security Bureau. Only by passing the driver's license test can one obtain a driver's license and legally drive motor vehicles. Content of the Driver's License Test: The motor vehicle driver's license test is divided into three parts: the road traffic safety laws, regulations, and related knowledge test (also known as the "theoretical test", abbreviated as "Subject One"), the field driving skills test (commonly known as the "parking test", abbreviated as "Subject Two"), and the road driving skills and safe civilized driving common sense test (commonly known as the "road test", abbreviated as "Subject Three"). The test content and passing standards are uniform nationwide, with corresponding test items specified according to different types of vehicles.

There were rumors a while back that the driving tests in Changde were gradually resuming. My nephew just passed his Subject 2 last week. But there's really no unified schedule for this—each driving school has its own pace of resumption. When I went for practice recently, I overheard the instructor saying there are far fewer test slots now, so you need to book a spot on the Traffic Management 12123 app at least half a month in advance. The safest bet is to call your driving school directly or check the 'Changde Traffic Police' WeChat public account—they frequently update the test site availability. Whatever you do, don't just wait for a text notification—my neighbor learned that the hard way and missed the registration, wasting a whole month. If you're in a hurry to get your license, brush up on the Subject 1 test questions now—it'll save you a lot of time once things fully reopen.

Most of the major test centers in Changde have reopened. I accompanied a friend to the Deshan test center earlier this month. However, the examination process has become stricter now. You need to show both health codes and have your temperature checked upon entry, with only about a hundred slots available each day. If you're preparing for the Subject 3 test, I recommend choosing the 7 a.m. session when there are fewer cars and better road conditions. My cousin, who took the test last week, mentioned that since the new regulations were implemented, every test item is monitored by an electronic examiner. Crossing a solid line will immediately deduct 100 points. Oh, and remember to familiarize yourself with the test routes in advance. Several new test lanes have been marked at the Deshan center, completely different from the old maps.

Seriously, you should sign up for driving school as soon as possible. The instructor was complaining to me this morning that they're completely overwhelmed with students right now. Especially with summer vacation in full swing, the registration office has long queues every day. I'd recommend prioritizing driving schools with their own test centers, like Chuxing Driving School where you can take the second road test on-site, saving you the hassle of traveling back and forth. The most frustrating part is the retake scheduling—if you fail, you'll have to wait at least twenty days to book again, which is much slower than previous years. But here's a little tip for rainy day tests: remember to bring a dry towel to wipe the side mirrors, as the wipers might not clear the view well enough for reference points.


