How many seconds can the clutch be pressed during the start of Subject 3?

[Katherine]

The clutch should not be fully pressed for more than five seconds, and the half-clutch state should not exceed fifteen seconds. If you feel the half-clutch is held for too long, immediately press it fully and then return to the half-clutch state, as the computer system will then recalculate the time. Subject 3: Includes the road driving skills test and the safety and civilized driving knowledge test. It is part of the motor vehicle driver's license assessment and is the abbreviation for the road driving skills and safety and civilized driving knowledge test in the motor vehicle driver's examination. The content of the road driving skills test varies for different types of vehicles eligible for driving. Test content: Vehicle preparation, light simulation test, starting, driving in a straight line, gear shifting operations, changing lanes, parking by the roadside, driving straight through intersections, turning left at intersections, turning right at intersections, passing through pedestrian crossings, passing through school zones, passing through bus stops, meeting vehicles, overtaking, making U-turns, and nighttime driving. The safety and civilized driving knowledge test generally includes: requirements for safe and civilized driving operations, safe driving knowledge under adverse weather and complex road conditions, emergency handling methods for situations such as tire blowouts, and knowledge of post-accident handling procedures.

[McBentley]

I just took my students through the Subject 3 driving test, and the timing of clutch control during startup is particularly crucial. The test requires that the clutch must not be depressed for more than 5 seconds during the entire startup operation; exceeding this time limit will result in an automatic failure. I've seen many students fail because they got nervous and lingered in the semi-engaged state for an extra two seconds. Actually, the action should be done in one smooth motion: after shifting gears and releasing the handbrake, keep your ankle steady when finding the semi-engaged point, quickly release the clutch as soon as the front of the car lifts slightly, and immediately tap the accelerator lightly. This coordination requires more practice; you can practice the rhythm by pressing the pedals at home. Also, note that starting on a slope is more likely to exceed the time limit than on flat ground. You must start moving within three seconds after releasing the handbrake to avoid rolling back and save time.

[McParker]

Last month, I failed my driving test (Subject 3) due to poor clutch control. I specifically asked the examiner about the standards and was clearly told that releasing the clutch from start to finish must not exceed 5 seconds, with the timer starting immediately after shifting gears. At the time, I was too nervous—I lingered at the friction point until the car shook violently before releasing, which directly led to exceeding the time limit and losing points. Later, I practiced starting in the driving school parking lot every day and realized the key is to be bold yet meticulous: once you find the friction point, don’t hesitate—immediately follow up with the accelerator, ideally completing the entire action within 3 seconds. Also, pay attention to the fact that the test car’s clutch might be stiffer, so test and adapt to its travel in advance. This approach prevents stalling while avoiding time penalties, making it very practical for beginners.

[LaMakayla]

After driving for ten years, I've realized that slowly releasing the clutch during startup causes significant damage to the car. Prolonged half-engagement overheats the clutch friction plates, leading to premature wear and even a burning smell. The 5-second limit set in driving tests is truly beneficial for beginners. In actual driving, I also count the seconds: after fully depressing the clutch and shifting gears, I mentally count to two while lifting to the half-engagement position, then release completely within one second. This rhythm ensures smooth gear engagement, steady vehicle movement, and protects mechanical components. Don't intentionally grind the clutch to save fuel—the cost of one transmission repair could cover two years' worth of gas. Developing a habit of quick and smooth starts is crucial for driving safety.