How soon can I retake the Theory Test (Subject 1) if I failed?
3 Answers
You need to wait for 10 days before you can schedule the test again. According to the "Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driving Licenses", the Subject 1 retake allows two attempts on the same day. If you fail the first attempt, you can take a second attempt for free. If you fail the second attempt, the Subject 1 test will be terminated. Subject 1, also known as the Theory Test or Driver Theory Test, is part of the motor vehicle driving license assessment. The test content includes driving theory basics, road safety laws and regulations, local regulations, and related knowledge. The test is computer-based with a time limit of 45 minutes. A passing score for Subject 1 is 90 points. The test consists of 100 questions, including single-choice and true/false questions, with each question worth 1 point (total score: 100 points). If you answer 11 questions incorrectly during the test, the system will automatically submit the test and end the session. Subject 1 test content: Driving license and motor vehicle management regulations; Road traffic conditions and regulations; Road traffic safety violations and penalties; Road 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 cargo vehicles; Specialized knowledge for wheeled self-propelled machinery, trams, and trolleybuses. Subject 1 test precautions: Candidates should pay attention to their attire—no slippers are allowed, and electronic devices and bags are prohibited in the examination room. Bring your ID card and queue to enter the waiting hall. Observe the precautions and procedures displayed on the screen and store personal belongings in lockers before entering the examination room. Inside, the identity verification desk will assign a seat. Once seated, begin the test, ensuring the camera is aligned with you and adhering to test discipline. If you fail the first attempt, a same-day retake is available. If you fail again, you must pay to reschedule. After completion, queue to collect and sign the score report—unsigned reports are considered invalid. There is no limit to the number of times you can schedule the Subject 1 test. Each subject allows one test attempt, with one retake if you fail. If you skip the retake or fail the retake, the test is terminated, and you must reschedule. For Subject 2 and Subject 3, only five attempts are allowed, and rescheduling must be done after 10 days. If you fail the Subject 3 Safe Driving Knowledge Test, the 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 Road 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 Test. The Safe Driving Knowledge Test is conducted after Subject 3, so it is commonly referred to as Subject 4. However, the official terminology (as per the Ministry of Public Security Order No. 123) does not include "Subject 4."
I failed my driver's license theory test (Subject 1) last time. You can register for a retake on the same day, but the exact timing depends on the DMV's appointment availability. In most places, you only need to wait a day or two, with the fastest retake possible the next day. Don't worry about waiting too long—the key is to quickly review the question bank. I used the 'Driving Test Treasure' app, practicing for half an hour daily and repeatedly going through my mistake collection, which helped me pass smoothly. The retake fee is usually around 100 yuan. The system might show limited available slots when booking, so during peak times, you may need to wait a few extra days. Remember, Subject 1 content is simple but practical. Focus on memorizing traffic signs and regulations, but avoid rote learning—try to understand them in real-life scenarios, like how roadside parking rules affect actual driving safety. The sooner you retake and pass, the less it will delay your practice for Subjects 2 and 3.
From experience, the retake arrangement for the failed Subject 1 test is quite flexible, usually without fixed waiting periods. You can apply for a retake on the same day, but the DMV system often has processing times, so scheduling it for the next day or within a week or two is generally fine. I recommend promptly downloading apps like 'Driving Test Prep' to intensify practice, as they simulate real exam papers and quickly focus on key question types. Don’t panic during the retake; just follow the rules. The fee varies roughly from tens to a hundred yuan, depending on the region. This theoretical test is quite important as it helps you grasp basic traffic knowledge, reducing mistakes when driving later. Remember to prepare thoroughly and avoid wasting opportunities due to minor oversights.
