Is Light Braking Required in School Zones for Subject 3?
3 Answers
Light braking is required in school zones for Subject 3. When passing through the designated braking area, it is essential to lightly brake to reduce speed and proceed slowly. If encountering pedestrians crossing the road, you must stop and wait. Locations requiring light braking in Subject 3: Proceeding straight through intersections: Due to the complexity of intersections, there may be vehicles or pedestrians crossing. Students should lightly brake in advance to reduce speed, ensuring the speed does not exceed 30km/h. Even if the light is green with no obstructing vehicles or pedestrians, lightly pressing the brake is mandatory. Failure to do so will result in immediate disqualification. Left or right turns: Whether turning left or right, turn signals must be activated in advance, followed by deceleration (some examinees may already be driving slowly but must still lightly brake before turning). Bus stops or school zones: Audio prompts are usually provided when passing bus stops. If no prompt is given, pay attention to roadside signs. Light braking is required when passing, proceeding slowly. If encountering students crossing the road after school, stop and wait. Crosswalks: Students must lightly brake to reduce speed when passing crosswalks. If pedestrians are crossing, stop and wait, ensuring the vehicle does not stop on the crosswalk. Avoid rushing or honking, as such uncivilized behavior will lead to immediate disqualification. U-turns or meeting oncoming vehicles: Deceleration is mandatory. For U-turns, shift to a lower gear (1st or 2nd). Without deceleration, high-speed U-turns will result in poor vehicle stability. The system typically issues instructions; if no oncoming vehicles are present, follow the procedure for meeting vehicles. Upon hearing the instruction, students should execute the deceleration operation.
As an experienced driving test instructor, I'm well-versed in the key operations for school zones during the Subject 3 exam. The test requires extra caution while driving, especially near school areas. Reducing speed is essential, typically limited to under 30 km/h, and light braking is a common technique—particularly when students or potential hazards are present. Gently tapping the brake demonstrates to the examiner that you're controlling speed and preventing accidents. During the actual test, failing to brake lightly may result in point deductions, as examiners assess observation skills and safety awareness. I advise trainees to develop the habit of slowing down before approaching school zones during practice and applying light braking if they notice any movement. Cultivating this awareness is beneficial for both passing the test and everyday driving—safety always comes first. Remember, Subject 3 is a practical test of reflexes and judgment.
I just passed the road test not long ago, and I have some thoughts on this issue. On the day of the test, when passing through the school zone, I was a bit nervous. The instructor had taught us to slow down and, if necessary, tap the brakes. I remembered that the speed shouldn't be too fast and had to be reduced below 30 km/h, so I lightly tapped the brake to show that I was controlling the speed. The examiner was quite satisfied and didn't deduct any points. During practice, I often made the mistake of forgetting to tap the brakes, but after practicing a few more times, I got the hang of it. This part of the test is designed to simulate real road conditions and ensure that you pay attention to student safety. My advice is to observe the surroundings in advance. If there are children or any movement, tapping the brakes is a reminder to yourself not to rush. Getting a driver's license isn't just about skills—it's also about safety awareness. Now that I'm on the road, I naturally slow down and tap the brakes every time I enter a school zone.
