How many points are deducted for stalling in Subject 3 of the driving test?
3 Answers
The "Motor Vehicle Driver Training Teaching and Examination Syllabus" stipulates that stalling once due to improper operation in Subject 3 will result in a deduction of 10 points. Reasons for stalling: It is mostly caused by improper coordination between the clutch and the accelerator, or lifting the clutch too quickly when starting, i.e., releasing the pedal too fast. This creates a mismatch between the engine's output power and the transmission input shaft's power, leading to a sudden increase in friction and causing the engine to stall. Starting after stalling: Press the brake, slowly release the clutch until you feel the car body shaking, as if an arrow is about to be released from a bow. Then gradually release the brake while keeping the clutch steady with your left foot. When releasing the brake, the car should move forward instead of rolling backward. The intensity of the car body's shaking needs to be felt during practice. Releasing the brake too early will result in insufficient force, causing the car to roll, while not releasing the brake when the shaking is very intense may lead to stalling again.
When it comes to stalling during the Subject 3 driving test, the penalty is severe. I've trained many people, and stalling once during the test directly results in a 100-point deduction, which basically means failing. This is because stalling reflects a lack of proficiency in vehicle control, and the test is designed to assess safe driving ability. Subject 3 includes tasks like hill starts and turns, where stalling on a slope poses a significant risk of rolling back, so strict penalties help prevent accidents. During practice, focus on the clutch—slowly release it while adding a little throttle to maintain semi-engagement when starting. Older cars may also stall more easily, so practice more with the training vehicle. Nervousness during the test is a common cause, so take deep breaths and stay calm. In short, stalling costs 100 points, emphasizing the importance of mastering the basics—don’t underestimate the details.
I just finished my Subject 3 driving test not long ago, and stalling the car was terrifying. During the test, I almost stalled at a turn, and my instructor said stalling once would deduct 100 points—equivalent to failing the entire test. I’ve seen classmates fail and retake the test because of this. The key lies in clutch control—for example, lifting the clutch too quickly or insufficient throttle when starting can easily cause a stall. During training, repeatedly simulate test scenarios to familiarize yourself with your car’s clutch engagement point; stay calm during the exam, and if you stall, don’t panic—immediately press the clutch and restart. Subject 3 also tests gear shifting and observation, and stalling is just one of the point deductions, but the most fatal. Practice more to avoid it, and remember: safety always comes first.
