Should I Shift to Neutral at Red Lights During Subject 3 Test?

[DeOscar]

Subject 3 test requires shifting to neutral at red lights. Here are the relevant instructions: Lane changing in Subject 3: Upon hearing the voice prompt "Please change lanes", the examinee should activate the turn signal for more than 3 seconds while simultaneously observing rear traffic through the left mirror by turning their head left. After confirming safety, turn the steering wheel left to change lanes. If conditions don't permit changing lanes, the examinee should slow down and wait for suitable conditions before changing lanes. Consecutive changes across two lanes are strictly prohibited. Straight-line driving in Subject 3: Upon hearing the voice prompt "Please maintain straight-line driving", the examinee should look straight ahead, control the steering wheel with both hands, and keep the vehicle moving straight. Riding or pressing on lane dividing lines is strictly prohibited.

[DiSpencer]

During my driving test for Subject 3 at the driving school, the instructor repeatedly emphasized stopping at red lights in neutral gear, especially when stopping for more than half a minute. For manual transmission cars, shifting to neutral relieves fatigue from pressing the clutch with the left foot, while automatic transmission cars should be put in N gear to protect the gearbox. In case of rolling or accidental starting, this operation reduces risks. On the test ground, the examiner values this safety habit: after stopping, shift to neutral, pull the handbrake, and place your foot on the brake pedal to prepare, then start smoothly at green light to avoid stalling or jerking. Developing this habit is also useful in daily driving, saving fuel and reducing wear at congested urban intersections, killing multiple birds with one stone.

[DeEdward]

Having taught many students for Subject 3, I believe stopping at a red light and shifting to neutral is a fundamental skill. For manual transmissions, keeping the clutch depressed or staying in first gear at a red light for extended periods increases engine strain—shifting to neutral is easier and more efficient. For automatic transmissions, the N gear protects the powertrain. During exams, examiners deduct points for minor details; failing to shift to neutral after stopping appears unprofessional and can lead to messy, error-prone operations. It's advisable to check the gear position after stopping, maintain a 2-3 second safety confirmation, and ensure smoother operations when the light turns green. This also helps prevent runaway starts on slopes and ensures overall driving fluency for passing the test.

[KaiLee]

Thinking back to when I took the driving test for Subject 3, putting the car in neutral at red lights was my lifesaver. After coming to a stable stop, shifting to neutral and lightly pressing the brake made it easy to quickly shift into gear and start when the light turned green, avoiding stalling due to nervousness from waiting too long. This method made the test go smoother and left a good impression on the examiner; in daily driving, it saves fuel and keeps things quiet, making long city red lights less bothersome once you're used to it. All in all, it's a fundamental safety step.