How soon after starting in Subject 3 should you shift to 2nd gear?
2 Answers
Shift to 2nd gear three seconds before turning, and try to keep the time in 2nd gear within 20 seconds. Maintain turning speed below 30 km/h but above 20 km/h. Below is relevant information about the Subject 3 exam: Introduction: Subject 3, which includes the road driving skills test and the safety and civilized driving knowledge test, is part of the motor vehicle driver's license assessment. It is the abbreviated name 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 depending on the type of vehicle being licensed. Test Content: The road driving skills test for Subject 3 generally includes: preparation before getting in the car, simulated lighting test, starting, driving straight, shifting gears, changing lanes, pulling over, going straight through intersections, turning left at intersections, turning right at intersections, passing through crosswalks, passing through school zones, passing through bus stops, meeting oncoming vehicles, overtaking, making U-turns, and nighttime driving.
As a student who just passed the third driving test, I think how long to wait before shifting to second gear after starting is all about experience. The instructor taught me to accelerate smoothly when starting, and after the car moves for about three to five seconds, when the speed reaches 15 to 20 kilometers per hour, shifting to second gear is the safest. Shifting too quickly can cause the engine to stall, leading to point deductions in the test; delaying too long may appear hesitant, and the examiner might deduct points for inefficiency. During practice, I count to three on open roads before shifting, but in urban test conditions, I shift earlier. The key is to watch the speedometer and listen for the engine sound becoming lighter. I recommend beginners use a stopwatch to time it at first, gradually learning the car's 'rhythm,' and then rely on intuition once it becomes a habit. Multiple practice simulations before the test can reduce nervousness and help you pass smoothly. Don’t worry about differences in car models—manual transmissions follow similar shifting principles, and practice makes perfect.
