How many points are deducted for not releasing the handbrake in Subject 2?
3 Answers
During the Subject 2 driving test, if you do not release the handbrake when starting the vehicle after stopping on the slope during the slope parking and starting exercise, 10 points will be deducted. Here are the detailed explanations: 1. Explanation one: For applicants of large buses, tractors, city buses, medium-sized buses, and large trucks, a passing score is 90 points. If the distance exceeds 50CM after stopping during the slope parking and starting exercise, it will be considered a failure. 2. Explanation two: For applicants of other vehicle types, a passing score is 80 points. The full score is 100 points, with evaluation criteria set for failure, deduction of 20 points, deduction of 10 points, and deduction of 5 points.
I remember when I was taking the driving test for Subject 2, the instructor repeatedly emphasized that the operation sequence must be strictly followed, otherwise points would be deducted. During one mock test, I started the car but forgot to pull the handbrake, and the examiner immediately deducted 100 points—failing me on the spot. It was really shocking! The reason is that not pulling the handbrake could cause the car to roll downhill, posing a huge risk, so the test rules stipulate a full 100-point deduction. Since then, I’ve developed a habit: pulling the handbrake first after getting in the car, then shifting gears and checking. I suggest fellow test-takers practice more with timers or record videos on their phones to simulate the test and reduce mistakes. It’s even more important to develop these habits in daily driving, as accidents on the road can lead to serious trouble. The key is to simulate the operation sequence repeatedly before the test—don’t just focus on cornering skills or parking maneuvers. The overall safety procedure is crucial.
I understand that many small details in the Subject 2 driving test can lead to failure, and not pulling the handbrake is one of them—it directly results in a 100-point deduction and disqualification. Why is this so serious? Because not pulling the handbrake can easily cause the car to roll back during hill starts, and the examiner considers this a fundamental mistake. I’ve taken the test several times myself and have seen others retake it due to this small oversight. According to the rules, the scoring criteria clearly list failing to check the handbrake before starting as a major error. My suggestion is to make it a fixed routine during practice: pull the handbrake as soon as you get in the car, check it once more before moving. Subject 2 consists of multiple sections, such as reverse parking and parallel parking, which also emphasize attention to detail, but the handbrake issue is the easiest to overlook. Don’t forget to relax before the test—don’t let nervousness make you forget the basics. Developing good habits is far better than last-minute cramming.
