Is Subject 4 the same as Subject 3's Safety and Civilization Knowledge?
2 Answers
Subject 3's Safety and Civilization Driving Knowledge Test is commonly referred to as Subject 4. Subject 4, also known as Subject 4 Theory Test or Driver Theory Test, is part of the motor vehicle driver's license assessment. It primarily includes: safety and civilization driving operation requirements, safe driving knowledge under adverse weather and complex road conditions, emergency handling methods for situations like tire blowouts, and post-traffic accident handling knowledge. The Subject 4 test consists of 50 questions, presented in formats such as case studies, images, and animations, with a full score of 100 and a passing score of 90. After the implementation of the Ministry of Public Security's Order No. 123, Subject 3 was divided into two parts: the road test and the Safety and Civilization Knowledge Test, commonly known as "Subject 4," which assesses "driving ethics." Since this test is conducted after Subject 3, it is commonly referred to as Subject 4. Officially, there is no such term as Subject 4. Before the test, students can study traffic regulations through driver simulation test software on mobile devices or computers.
It's been twenty years since I got my driver's license. Back then, after passing the road test (Subject 3), we had to take Subject 4, which was the Safe and Civilized Driving Knowledge Test. Subject 3 mainly tested your practical driving skills, such as lane changes and parking maneuvers. Subject 4, on the other hand, was entirely theoretical, focusing on safety rules and civilized behavior—like yielding to pedestrians and not driving under the influence. The exam format was multiple-choice, covering topics like traffic signs and emergency handling. Looking back after years of driving, I realize how useful the knowledge from Subject 4 really is. Many accidents happen because drivers overlook these basic civilized practices. Subject 4 is essentially an extension of Subject 3, embedding safety culture into your mindset. Passing it is what truly qualifies you as a competent driver—without it, driving feels like it lacks a soul. Whenever I see uncivilized driving in my community, I’m reminded of the lessons from Subject 4.
