Has the Manual Transmission Hill Start and Stop Been Canceled?
2 Answers
Hill start cancellation only applies to automatic transmission driving tests, while manual transmission still requires normal testing. The manual transmission driver's license test still includes the hill start assessment, as it inherently evaluates the coordination and usage of the clutch. From a safe driving perspective, even though automatic transmissions no longer require hill starts, mastering this skill is still essential for smoother driving when encountering traffic jams on uphill roads. Hill Start: Hill start is a common test in the second subject of the driver's license exam, which involves starting a vehicle parked on a steep slope. When learning the hill start technique for manual transmission vehicles, students should first pull the handbrake, press the accelerator to at least 2000 RPM, then release the clutch until around 1000 RPM, release the handbrake, slightly release the clutch while adding a bit more gas, and the car will naturally move uphill. Hill Start Technique: After the test begins, shift to first gear, release the handbrake, gently release the clutch, and once the vehicle is stable, proceed uphill, staying as close as possible to the side line within 30 centimeters. Try to control the clutch to keep the vehicle speed as slow as possible. For the stop point, use a reference object aligned with the marker to ensure the front of the car aligns with the marker, thus achieving the correct stop position.
This really depends on the region. Back in my hometown last year, the hill start was still part of the driving test, but my neighbor's kid took the test in the provincial capital this year and said it's been removed. My driving instructor mentioned that many big cities have indeed simplified the Category 2 test, with some places using simulators instead of actual hill start tests. But honestly, as someone who's driven manual transmission for 15 years, I'd advise beginners to master this skill regardless of whether it's tested or not. Getting that precise clutch control on hill starts requires muscle memory - if you ever get stuck on a slope in traffic, rolling back and hitting the car behind is way worse than failing a test. Find a gentle slope to practice coordinating your left foot on the clutch and right hand on the handbrake when you have time; it could really prevent accidents in critical situations.
