How long after passing Subject 1 will Subject 2 become invalid?
3 Answers
According to the "Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driving Licenses," the validity period of the study driving certificate is three years, but the expiration date must not exceed the upper age limit for application. Applicants must complete the Subject 2 and Subject 3 tests within the validity period. If the tests are not completed within the validity period, the passing scores of already completed subjects will become invalid. Subject 1, also known as the theoretical driving test or driver theory test, is part of the motor vehicle driving license assessment. The test content includes driving theory basics, road safety laws and regulations, local regulations, and related knowledge. The test format is computer-based, with a time limit of 45 minutes. Subject 1 consists of 100 single-choice and true/false questions, each worth 1 point. If 11 questions are answered incorrectly during the test, the system will automatically submit the test and end the session. Subject 1 test content: Driving license and motor vehicle management regulations; road traffic conditions and regulations; road traffic safety violations and penalties; road traffic accident handling regulations; basic knowledge of motor vehicles; local regulations; knowledge of braking systems and safety devices for large and medium-sized passenger and freight vehicles; specialized knowledge for wheeled self-propelled machinery, trams, and trolleybuses. Subject 1 test precautions: During the Subject 1 test, students should pay attention to their attire—no slippers are allowed, and electronic devices and bags are prohibited in the examination room. Bring your ID card and queue to enter the waiting hall. Observe the precautions and procedures on the large screen, and store personal belongings in lockers before entering the examination room. Upon entering, verify your identity at the assigned seat and begin the test. Ensure the camera is aligned with you and follow test discipline. If you fail the first attempt, a retake is available on the same day. If you fail again, you must pay to reschedule. After completion, queue to collect your score sheet and sign it—failure to sign will render the result invalid. There is no limit to the number of times Subject 1 can be scheduled. Each subject can be taken once, with one retake allowed if failed. If the retake is not attended or is failed, the test session ends, and the applicant must reschedule. For Subject 2 and Subject 3, there are only five test attempts, and rescheduling must be done at least ten days later. If the Subject 3 safe driving knowledge test is failed, the passing score for the road driving skills test remains valid. The driving test consists of three subjects: Subject 1, Subject 2, and Subject 3. Subject 1 refers to the road traffic safety laws, regulations, and related knowledge test; Subject 2 refers to the field driving skills test; Subject 3 is divided into two parts: road driving skills and safe driving knowledge test. The safe driving knowledge test is conducted after Subject 3, so it is commonly referred to as Subject 4. However, the official term (as per the Ministry of Public Security Order No. 123) does not include "Subject 4."
I still remember clearly when I was taking my driver's license test. After passing Subject 1, I had to complete Subjects 2 and 3 within three years. If this deadline is exceeded, all previous results become invalid, and you have to start over from scratch, which is both costly and time-consuming. I think this rule is mainly to prevent people from forgetting driving knowledge, as the practical operations in Subject 2 require proficiency to ensure safe driving. I suggest you contact the driving school to arrange training as soon as possible after passing Subject 1. Don’t think you have unlimited time—procrastinating can lead to losing your practice feel and make you more prone to failing due to nervousness. Some regions may allow extensions, but it’s best not to take the risk. Check the official website of your local driving test center to confirm the specific deadlines. I’ve seen friends who dragged it out past three years and had to retake everything, costing them thousands more. Plan ahead and don’t let your efforts go to waste.
I just passed the theory test (Subject 1), and my driving instructor keeps emphasizing that I must complete Subject 2 within three years. Otherwise, the exam qualification will be automatically reset, meaning I'd have to start over, including paying the fees and registering again. This rule applies nationwide, counting from the day you pass Subject 1. All practical exams must be completed within this period to be valid. I'm currently practicing reverse parking every day, worried about running out of time and forgetting the techniques. Honestly, three years is quite generous, but if you're busy with work or travel frequently, it's best to schedule the exam early. I recommend asking your driving instructor directly—they'll help keep track of your progress. Remember, Subject 2 is fundamental. Practice more to improve your pass rate, and don’t wait until it’s too late to regret. Take action early to save yourself hassle later.