Is it allowed to look at the gearshift during the Subject 2 driving test?

[JadeLynn]

Subject 2 driving test does not allow looking at the gearshift while changing gears. During the Subject 2 test, if the examinee lowers their head to look at the gearshift or fails to engage the gear twice consecutively while the vehicle is in motion, a penalty of 100 points will be deducted. Below are the relevant details: Subject 2: Subject 2 is part of the motor vehicle driver's license assessment. The test items for cars (C1/C2) include five mandatory tests: reverse parking, parallel parking, hill start, right-angle turn, and curve driving (commonly known as S-curve). Some regions may have a sixth item, high-speed toll card collection. The test vehicle is equipped with sensors on the gearshift lever to determine the current gear, whether the gearshift was successful, the number of gearshift attempts, etc. If the examinee fails to engage the gear twice, and on the third attempt to engage the same gear, the system will detect it as looking down at the gearshift and will announce it via voice prompt. Number of test attempts: For the Subject 2 test, if the examinee fails the first attempt, they are allowed one retake. If the examinee does not attend the retake or fails the retake, the test session ends, and the applicant must reschedule the test after ten days. Within the validity period of the driving skill test permit, the number of rescheduled attempts for Subject 2 and Subject 3 road driving skill tests must not exceed five. If the fifth rescheduled test is still unsuccessful, the results of other previously passed subjects will be invalidated.

[KimberlyMarie]

In the Subject 2 driving test, it is generally not recommended to look at the gearshift when changing gears. My experience tells me that examiners place great emphasis on your driving focus. Looking down at the gearshift not only makes you appear inexperienced but also increases the likelihood of operational errors, such as missing key reference points during reverse parking. Manual gear shifting should be performed through muscle memory and feel, rather than visual reliance. During practice, simulate test scenarios to train yourself not to look down, and repeatedly practice shifting from neutral to various gear positions. Although the test rules do not explicitly prohibit glancing, the examiner may deduct points for poor impression or directly mark you as failing. I recommend spending more time on simulated driving to make gear shifting instinctive, making it easier to pass the test in one go.

[OMaci]

When I was taking the driving test for Subject 2, the instructor repeatedly reminded me not to look at the gearshift while changing gears. During the test, the examiner closely monitors your line of sight, and looking down at the gearshift can easily be perceived as distraction or unsafe behavior. Like me, I couldn’t resist glancing at first, and almost stalled the car during the hill start. Later, with more practice, I could shift gears accurately even with my eyes closed, and passed the test smoothly. The key to the road test is to keep your eyes on the road ahead and avoid losing points for small movements. Focus on developing muscle memory during practice, and you’ll do fine in the test. Don’t stress—practice makes perfect.

[Lynda]

For friends taking the driving test, don't stare at the gearshift during the Subject 2 test! From my conversations, most people have stumbled over this. Checking the gear during the exam divides your attention—the test area is small, making operational errors likely and affecting your score. My instructor always says manual driving tests assess proficiency; looking down while shifting can lead to point deductions or failure. Practice blind shifting more often during training, relying on memory to locate gears, ensuring smooth performance during the test. Remember, safe driving habits start with the basics. A few more practices will instill good habits—don't let this small detail cost you a pass.