How Long Does It Take to Get the Driver's License After Passing Subject 4?
4 Answers
After passing Subject 4, you can receive the license on-site, usually within about 2 hours. Subject 4, also known as the Subject 4 theory test or driver's theory test, is part of the motor vehicle driver's license examination. The main content includes: safe and civilized driving operation requirements, safe driving knowledge under adverse weather and complex road conditions, emergency handling methods for situations such as tire blowouts, and knowledge on handling traffic accidents. The Subject 4 test consists of 50 questions, primarily in the form of case studies, images, animations, etc., with a full score of 100 and a passing score of 90. 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 an additional safety and civilization knowledge test, commonly known as "Subject 4," which assesses "driving ethics." Since this test is conducted after Subject 3, it is commonly referred to as the Subject 4 test. Officially, however, there is no Subject 4. Before the test, students can study traffic regulations through driver's mock test software on mobile or computer devices.
Last time I took the Subject 4 test in Shenzhen, I got my driver's license right away at the vehicle management office - super efficient. But my friend who took the test in their hometown county had to wait three days before being notified to pick it up. I heard in some remote areas it can take about a week. Actually it mainly depends on the workload at the local vehicle management office - in big cities document processing is faster so you can get it same day, while smaller towns might have longer queues. I recommend asking the staff directly after the test, they know the local procedures best. Oh and remember to bring your ID card, otherwise you'll make a wasted trip which would be a real shame.
There's really no unified standard for receiving your driver's license after passing the test. Last year, I got my fresh license at the test center window just 30 minutes after completing the exam. But when my cousin took the test in Hangzhou, he encountered a system upgrade and had to wait a full 48 hours. Nowadays, many cities issue licenses on-site immediately, with processing times ranging from half an hour to half a day. If you opt for mail delivery, you'll typically need to add 2-3 days for transportation. Don't rush off after the test - pay attention to the broadcast announcements or check the processing status on the Traffic Management 12123 app.
It's quite common to receive the license on the same day of passing Subject 4. Last November, I got my laminated driver's license within forty minutes after the exam. However, it's hard to say during holidays. For example, before the Spring Festival, the DMV was packed, and a friend had to wait for three working days. Additionally, it depends on the progress of file review. If there are records of subject retakes, it may take more time for verification. It's best to leave a two-day buffer and not rush to plan a road trip.
