Is the left and right observation in Subject 3 determined by computer?
3 Answers
Subject 3 left and right observation is determined by computer. According to the Subject 3 deduction criteria: Starting, turning, changing lanes, overtaking, or parking without using the turn signal for at least 3 seconds will directly deduct 10 points. Therefore, if the interval between two turn signals in the Subject 3 test is less than 3 seconds, 20 points should be deducted. New regulations for Subject 3: Starting from June 1, 2021, the interval between Subject 3 exam appointments has been adjusted from 30 days after passing Subject 1 to 20 days. For those applying for large and medium-sized passenger and truck driving licenses, the interval between Subject 3 exam appointments has been adjusted from 40 days after passing Subject 1 to 30 days.
I just passed the Road Test (Subject 3) last year, so I'm quite qualified to talk about this. During practice, the instructor kept emphasizing that the left-right observation must involve full head movements – the exam car has cameras and sensors specifically tracking head rotation, and insufficient angle would trigger automatic point deductions. During one mock test, I got an electronic warning for not turning my head 30 degrees during a lane change. On the actual exam day, I deliberately exaggerated my head turns with slower movements to ensure system recognition. Although examiners monitor the process, the primary evaluation relies on the equipment – it felt like playing a motion-sensing video game.
I've been teaching driving for over a decade, and all my students emphasize that checking left and right is a hard requirement. Nowadays, the third road test basically relies on electronic proctoring. The system in the car can precisely scan the position of the student's head. As soon as the turn signal is activated, the student must turn their head to check the mirrors. Last time, a student didn't turn their head enough, and the computer immediately reported a deduction for not observing. The examiner plays more of a supporting role, manually scoring if the movements aren't up to standard. So don't slack off—just follow the rules you practiced, and you'll be fine.
