How Many Times Can You Take the Driving Test Theory Exam (Subject 1)?
2 Answers
There is no limit to the number of times you can take the driving test theory exam (Subject 1). According to the "Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driving Licenses," you can take the Subject 1 exam twice on the same day. If you fail the first attempt, you can retake it for free. If you fail the second attempt, the Subject 1 exam for that day will be terminated, and you will have to wait ten days before scheduling another exam. Subject 1, also known as the theoretical driving test or driver theory exam, is part of the motor vehicle driving license assessment. The exam covers driving theory basics, road safety laws and regulations, local regulations, and related knowledge. The test is conducted on a computer and has a time limit of 45 minutes. To pass the Subject 1 exam, you need a score of 90 or above. The test consists of 100 questions, including single-choice and true/false questions, with each question worth 1 point (total score: 100). If you answer 11 questions incorrectly, the system will automatically submit the test and end the exam. Subject 1 exam content includes: driving license and motor vehicle management regulations; road traffic conditions and rules; traffic safety violations and penalties; traffic accident handling regulations; basic knowledge of motor vehicles; local regulations; knowledge of braking systems and safety devices for large and medium-sized passenger and freight vehicles; specialized knowledge for wheeled self-propelled machinery, trams, and trolleybuses. Subject 1 exam precautions: Candidates must dress appropriately (no slippers), and electronic devices and bags are not allowed in the exam hall. Bring your ID card and queue to enter the waiting area. Observe the instructions and procedures displayed on the screen, and store personal belongings in lockers before entering the exam hall. After identity verification, you will be assigned a seat to begin the exam. Ensure the camera is aligned with you and follow exam rules. If you fail the first attempt, you can retake it the same day. If you fail again, you must pay to reschedule. After the exam, queue to collect your score report and sign it—unsigned reports are invalid. There is no limit to the number of times you can schedule the Subject 1 exam. If you fail the first attempt, you can retake it once. If you skip the retake or fail again, the exam session ends, and you must reschedule. In contrast, Subject 2 and Subject 3 allow only five attempts each. Scheduling for Subject 2 and Subject 3 must be done at least ten days later. If you fail the Subject 3 safe driving knowledge test, your previously passed road driving skills test results remain valid. The driving test consists of three subjects: Subject 1, Subject 2, and Subject 3. Subject 1 refers to the traffic safety laws, regulations, and knowledge test; Subject 2 refers to the field driving skills test; Subject 3 is divided into two parts—road driving skills and safe driving knowledge. The safe driving knowledge test is conducted after Subject 3, so it is commonly referred to as "Subject 4," though this term is not officially recognized in regulations (i.e., Ministry of Public Security Order No. 123).
I just passed the written test (Subject 1) after three attempts. I heard the policy allows unlimited retakes within the one-year validity period, with a 7-day interval between exams. I used this time to practice questions daily, doing hundreds on the 'Driving Test Guide' app. My first attempt failed due to nervousness, but my instructor reassured me it's common for beginners – the key is practicing traffic rules to improve accuracy. Don't worry about the number of attempts; after passing, I realized Subject 1 knowledge is extremely useful for actual driving, like understanding traffic lights and pedestrian right-of-way rules. Persisting with retakes not only improves skills but also builds study habits. So when asked how many retakes are allowed – test confidently! Each failure is a learning opportunity, and with sufficient time, you'll pass.