How Many Times Can You Take the Driving Test?

[LeIsabelle]

In the driving license examination, there is no limit to the number of times you can schedule the test for Subject 1 and Subject 4, and each test comes with two free retake opportunities. For Subject 2 and Subject 3, you can schedule the test up to 5 times, and each test also includes two free retake opportunities. Subject 1, also known as the theoretical driving test or driver theory test, allows you to take the test twice on the same day. If you fail the first attempt, you can take a free second retake. If you still fail the second attempt, the Subject 1 test is terminated, and you can only reschedule the test after 10 days. The test is scored out of 100, with a passing mark of 90, and is conducted via computer. Subject 2, commonly referred to as the 'small road test,' is the abbreviation for the field driving skills test. It mainly includes five items: reversing into a parking space, parallel parking, stopping and starting on a slope, turning at a right angle, and driving along a curve. The test is scored out of 100, with evaluation criteria for failing, deducting 20 points, deducting 10 points, or deducting 5 points. A score of 80 or above is required to pass. You can schedule Subject 2 up to five times, and each scheduled test comes with two attempts. If you fail all five tests, your previously passed scores will be invalidated, and you will need to re-register for the test. Subject 3, also known as the 'big road test,' is the road driving skills test. The test content includes: preparing to start, driving straight, changing lanes, passing through intersections, pulling over, crossing pedestrian crosswalks, passing through school zones, passing bus stops, meeting oncoming vehicles, overtaking, making U-turns, and driving at night. The test is scored out of 100, with a passing mark of 90 or above. You can schedule Subject 3 up to five times, and each scheduled test comes with two attempts. If you fail all five tests, your previously passed scores will be invalidated, and you will need to re-register for the test. Subject 4, also known as the theoretical driving test or driver theory test, mainly covers: safe and civilized driving operation requirements, safe driving knowledge under adverse weather and complex road conditions, emergency handling methods for situations like tire blowouts, and post-accident handling knowledge. The test is scored out of 100, with a passing mark of 90. There is no limit to the number of times you can take Subject 4 within the validity period of your driving test certificate.

[LeGemma]

When I first signed up for the driver's license test, I was really nervous about failing. Later, I learned that the driving test actually offers multiple attempts, so it's not as scary as it seems. The theory test (Subject 1) can be taken as many times as needed—there's no limit. My friend passed only on his fourth try, and the key is to practice more with mock tests. The on-site driving test (Subject 2) has restrictions, though. Most regions allow a maximum of five attempts. If you fail all five, you have to re-register, pay the fees again, and start over with Subject 1. My cousin went through this and wasted a lot of time. The road test (Subject 3) also has a five-attempt limit. If you don’t pass within the validity period (usually one year or six months), you’ll have to retake the course. The safety test (Subject 4) is unlimited and relatively easy. Overall, don’t worry too much about the number of attempts, but focus on practicing diligently and maintaining a good mindset. Getting more guidance from your instructor can help reduce failures. Now that I’ve passed, my advice for newcomers is to prepare early with mock tests—it saves both money and stress.

[Figueiredo]

When my child was taking the driving test, I paid close attention to the regulations. The number of attempts for the driving test is limited but not overly strict. The written tests (Subject 1 and Subject 4) can be taken an unlimited number of times with no restrictions. For the field test (Subject 2), there are a maximum of 5 attempts. If all 5 attempts fail, you must re-register and start from scratch, which means spending several thousand yuan on training fees again. The road test (Subject 3) also allows a maximum of 5 attempts, and if you exceed this, you have to retake all the tests. My daughter failed her first Subject 2 test and passed only after two retakes, which was quite stressful. I advised her not to panic, as there are plenty of tools available now—just download an app and practice more. The entire driving test period is typically one year starting from the date of passing Subject 1, so it’s important to complete all tests within this timeframe. Parents can encourage their children and check the local DMV regulations in advance.

[StKinsley]

I've been teaching driving for over a decade and know the license exam rules well. The tests are tiered with multiple subjects. Theory tests like Subject 1 and Subject 4 allow unlimited retakes without penalty - you can take them anytime with quick turnaround. The real headaches are road tests Subject 2 and Subject 3, which cap at 5 attempts each. Failing the fifth attempt forces complete system re-registration and restarting the entire course. Some of my students needed 3-4 tries to pass, but the attempt limits actually push everyone to practice fundamentals harder. Each retake costs extra 200-500 RMB, and you typically must complete all tests within one year after passing Subject 1 - otherwise everything expires. My advice: choose legitimate driving schools for practice, don't just chase cheap options.