How early should I book the subject 4 driving test?
3 Answers
You can book the subject 4 driving test three days after passing the subject 3 test. In some places, you can even take the subject 4 test directly on the same day of passing subject 3 without booking, and get the license immediately, but the specific arrangements depend on the local vehicle management office. The processing speed for subject 4 is faster than subject 1, usually it takes 2 to 3 days to book, and the latest review will be conducted 1 to 5 days before the test. The booking result is generally notified via SMS. Subject 4 of the driving test is also known as the subject 4 theory test or driver theory test, which is part of the motor vehicle driver's license assessment. After the implementation of the Ministry of Public Security's Order No. 123, the subject 3 test was divided into two parts: the road test and the safe and civilized driving test, commonly known as "subject 4", which assesses "driving ethics".
When scheduling the subject four test for my driver's license, it's best to book early, usually two weeks in advance is the most reliable. Subject four is a theoretical exam, and everyone can operate it on the 12123 traffic management app, which will show available dates. For example, in big cities like mine, slots during peak periods get snapped up quickly, so you might need to book three weeks in advance for a good time slot; during off-peak times, one or two weeks should be fine. I recommend logging into the app immediately after passing subject three to check, avoiding weekends and holidays, otherwise waiting too long could delay getting your license. If you encounter system updates or long queues, be patient and refresh a few times, don't panic and make mistakes. Paying attention to reminders in the driving school group chat during your usual lessons can also be a big help.
From my friends' experiences discussing the subject four booking, they often say the timing needs to be flexible. The subject four test is generally booked through an app, and there are big differences between regions: in popular places like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, you might need to book three weeks in advance, while in smaller cities, one week is enough. The key is to check the number of slots released on the day of booking—booking too early might not show the options. Personally, I suggest downloading the 12123 app and making it a habit to check for updates weekly, avoiding peak times like 8 AM or weekends, which makes it easier to book. Also, make sure your ID card information isn’t expired to ensure a smooth process without delays. Doing a mock test before the exam to familiarize yourself with the environment is quite important.
