How Many Chances Are There for the Driving License Theory Test (Subject 1)?
2 Answers
There is no limit to the number of attempts for the Subject 1 test. According to the "Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driving Licenses," candidates can take the Subject 1 test twice on the same day. If the first attempt is unsuccessful, a free retake is allowed for the second attempt. If the second attempt also fails, the Subject 1 test is terminated for that day, and the candidate can only schedule another test after ten days. Subject 1, also known as the theoretical driving test or driver's theory test, is part of the motor vehicle driving license assessment. The test covers foundational driving theory, road safety laws and regulations, local regulations, and related knowledge. The test is computer-based and has a time limit of 45 minutes. To pass the Subject 1 test, a score of 90 or above is required. The test consists of 100 questions, divided into single-choice and true/false questions, with each question worth 1 point (total score: 100). If a candidate answers 11 questions incorrectly during the test, the system will automatically submit the test and end the session. Subject 1 test content includes: driving license and motor vehicle management regulations; road traffic conditions and rules; 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: Candidates should dress appropriately (no slippers), avoid bringing electronic devices or bags into the test center, carry their ID card, and queue to enter the waiting hall. Observe the instructions and procedures on the large screen, and store personal belongings in lockers before entering the test room. Upon entering, candidates will be assigned a seat at the identity verification station. After finding their seat, they can begin the test. Ensure the camera is aligned correctly and follow test discipline. If the first attempt fails, a same-day retake is allowed. If the retake also fails, a new appointment must be scheduled with payment. After completion, candidates must queue to collect their score report and sign it; unsigned reports are considered invalid. There is no limit to the number of Subject 1 test appointments. Each subject test allows one retake if the initial attempt fails. If the retake is not taken or also fails, the test is terminated, and the candidate must reschedule. In contrast, Subject 2 and Subject 3 allow only five attempts each. Subject 2 and Subject 3 tests can be rescheduled after ten days. If the Subject 3 safe driving knowledge test fails, the previously passed road driving skills test results remain 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 tests. The safe driving knowledge test is conducted after Subject 3, so it is commonly referred to as Subject 4. However, the official term (under the Ministry of Public Security's Order No. 123) does not include "Subject 4."
I was really nervous about Subject 1 when I signed up for driving lessons, and only found out from friends that there are unlimited retake opportunities within three years. Last year, I took the test for the first time but didn't prepare well enough, scoring only 80 points and failing. I had to wait 10 days to schedule a retake. Before the second attempt, I practiced extensively with mock questions on a driving test app and passed with 95 points. Remember not to procrastinate—the three-year cycle starts from the date of enrollment. If you don't complete all subjects within three years, your results will expire, and you'll waste your money. I recommend practicing more on traffic signs and road rules, as building a solid foundation is crucial for safe driving. Retake fees are around a few dozen yuan each time, so don't worry about the number of attempts, but passing early will save you stress.