How many meters can you drive in first gear during the driving test?

[McDaisy]

In the driving test (Subject 3), the distance driven in 1st gear should not exceed 50 meters, and in 2nd gear should not exceed 150 meters. The combined distance in 1st and 2nd gears should not exceed 200 meters. The distance is recalculated after stopping. Precautions for gear shifting in Subject 3: 1. Looking down at the gear shift can easily lead to test failure: If the candidate is not familiar with the gear positions or is too nervous during the test, they may instinctively look down at the gear shift, which will result in point deductions. 2. Do not shift gears without fully depressing the clutch: If the clutch is not fully depressed, you will hear a gear grinding sound when shifting, which can easily cause the engine to stall. 3. Avoid prolonged clutch depression: Subject 3 regulations specify that the time spent depressing the clutch before and after shifting gears should not be too long. 4. Do not skip gears when upshifting: Skipping gears when upshifting will inevitably result in a mismatch between speed and gear (low speed, high gear), causing severe vehicle vibration and potentially stalling the engine.

[VanAva]

Having taught driving for so many years, I can say that during the Category 3 driving test, driving in first gear is generally not allowed to exceed 50 meters, though this varies by region. For example, most test centers in Beijing and Shanghai enforce this limit. First gear is mainly used for starting or climbing at low speeds, where the engine bears a heavy load and runs at high RPMs. Driving too far in first gear may damage the vehicle or cause it to stall. The examiner will monitor the distance meter while you drive, and exceeding the limit will result in immediate point deductions or even failing the test. The same applies in real-world driving—shifting to a higher gear promptly saves fuel and ensures safety. Beginners should never get lazy about staying in first gear. During practice, develop the habit of checking the RPM immediately after starting and shifting to second gear within 2 seconds—this tests your agility and reflexes.

[ArthurAnn]

When I was learning to drive, my instructor often reminded me that during the Category 3 test, you shouldn't stay in first gear for too long—you need to shift up after no more than 50 meters. Gear selection directly affects speed and engine health. First gear offers strong power but low efficiency, and driving too far in it wastes fuel and harms the car. The test rules are designed to cultivate good driving habits and prevent new drivers from slowing down traffic due to slow operations. Think about real road conditions: if you crawl along and block the lane, it could cause a rear-end collision. After practicing the starting procedure a few times, you'll realize that shifting gears promptly is crucial—count your steps, and by around 30 meters, you should be ready to shift up.

[SanCassandra]

From a safety perspective, the regulation in Subject 3 limiting first-gear driving to no more than 50 meters is quite reasonable. The engine is prone to overheating under high load in low gears, increasing the risk of malfunctions and even causing loss of control on the road. This distance restriction in the test evaluates your ability to correctly assess road conditions and control the vehicle, avoiding the temptation to take shortcuts. The same principle applies to daily driving—don’t always rely on crawling in first gear; shifting to higher gears for smooth driving as soon as possible is more reliable. Remembering these details can help prevent problems before they occur.

[Craig]

Technically, first gear is the starting gear with a large gear ratio but the lowest speed. Prolonged use can overload the engine. The driving test (Subject 3) typically limits first gear usage to 50 meters, or 100 meters in some regions. Exceeding this distance triggers automatic system detection or examiner intervention, directly affecting test results. Additionally, engine overheating may damage components, making it wise to check transmission lubrication before driving. This rule also reminds everyone that timely gear shifting is a crucial aspect of driving efficiency.

[VanHaley]

When I was taking the third driving test, a classmate failed because he drove too long in first gear. He started slowly and drove over 60 meters without shifting up, prompting the examiner to stop him immediately. Later, I learned the rule requires shifting up within 50 meters—not just for the test but also for everyday driving. First gear is suitable for starting transitions; prolonged use wastes fuel and increases wear. Developing the habit of checking the tachometer right after starting and shifting to second gear within 20-30 meters ensures smoother driving. That experience taught me that safe driving relies on attention to small details.