Is it necessary to practice with the driving test center's simulator car?
3 Answers
It is necessary to practice with the driving test center's simulator car. Simulation training is highly beneficial because it typically takes place on the actual test track, and the simulation instructors are well aware of the key points in the exam, which can be very helpful for the test. The main challenges in the Subject 3 driving test are as follows: Mismatch between speed and gear: Errors such as high gear with low speed or low gear with high speed should be avoided during the test. Before shifting gears, ensure the speed is adjusted to match the gear, then switch gears. During driving, remember to glance at the speedometer every eight seconds to prevent such mistakes. Deviation in straight-line driving: Many learners intentionally slow down due to concerns about not driving in a straight line, which is not advisable. This can actually increase the likelihood of the vehicle deviating from its intended path. Therefore, maintain a reasonable and steady speed. Parking more than 30cm from the curb: The Subject 3 test explicitly requires that the parking distance from the curb should not exceed 30cm. However, this distance is difficult for many learners to gauge, often resulting in parking too far from the roadside.
As a driving instructor with over a decade of experience, I highly recommend trying the simulator car. There's a significant difference between exam vehicles and regular training cars—the clutch tightness and brake sensitivity vary considerably. Especially for hill starts, failing to adapt in advance can easily lead to stalling. The simulator car replicates the exam route and command system exactly, helping you memorize key points for each test item. Although it costs an extra two to three hundred yuan, it's much more cost-effective than failing and paying for retakes. I've also noticed many students use this to overcome plateaus—those who kept crossing lines during practice passed after correcting their steering timing in the simulator. Don't hesitate to spend this money; passing the exam in one attempt is what truly matters.
I just got my license last month, and the practice car was a lifesaver! Before the test, I thought my driving school training was solid, but at the test site, I was stunned—the route was full of twists and turns, and the ground markings were blurry. I gritted my teeth and signed up for a practice session. The instructor took me through three laps, pointing out which line to watch for reversing and the hidden stopping points on the slope. During the actual test, muscle memory kicked in, and I passed on the first try. Without this practice, nerves alone would’ve been enough to trip me up. My advice: don’t skimp on this expense, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the test site or a working professional who doesn’t practice often. Two hours of practice can save you a week of aimless guessing.