Should the clutch be pressed continuously while waiting at a red light during Subject 3?

[VanVanessa]

During a red light stop in Subject 3, the clutch should be pressed continuously. Below are some precautions for Subject 3: Adjust your mindset: Many students may feel nervous during the Subject 3 test. Students can make adjustments before the test, such as taking deep breaths or doing some light exercise to alleviate tension. Pay attention to special zones: When passing through special zones, it is necessary to control the speed. In many areas, there may be no reminders for special zones like school areas, bus stops, and pedestrian crossings during the test. Students need to be attentive during the test, control their speed properly, and make corresponding reminders.

[JosephLee]

I've been teaching driving for nearly a decade. During the Subject 3 test, never keep the clutch pedal depressed while waiting at a red light. Shift into neutral immediately and release the clutch pedal, then engage the handbrake. This prevents unnecessary engine load and wear while reducing foot fatigue. Examiners specifically check if your stopping procedure meets safety standards—keeping the clutch depressed may cause slight vehicle creep or even sudden stalling during startup, which results in immediate point deductions. In real-world driving, this habit saves fuel and reduces clutch failure risks. Remember, Subject 3 isn't just about vehicle control—it cultivates safe driving habits. Developing the clutch-release reflex makes daily driving smoother. Pay attention to details during the test, master vehicle control, and full marks are absolutely achievable.

[StNatalie]

I just passed the third driving test. I remember hesitating whether to press the clutch when waiting at a red light for the first time. The instructor said to release it after shifting to neutral, no need to keep pressing, which saves effort and reduces tension. On the exam day, I followed this method, and the examiner nodded in approval because keeping the foot pressed for too long can cause numbness, and if the throttle and clutch aren't coordinated well during startup, problems can arise. Beginners often make this mistake, thinking that pressing it allows for a quick start, but if the red light lasts too long, it actually increases the risk. During practice, simulate real scenarios more often to develop good habits and avoid faltering at critical moments. The test evaluates safety control, not speed—releasing the clutch and pulling the handbrake shows professionalism.

[OJonathan]

Having driven a manual transmission for over a decade, I've developed the habit of shifting to neutral and releasing the clutch at red lights to give my foot a rest. During the Category 3 driving test, examiners will assess whether you follow standardized procedures—keeping the clutch depressed may be viewed as unnecessary movement or even result in point deductions. Frequent clutch usage increases wear and fuel consumption, so simply shifting to neutral and engaging the handbrake while waiting at lights is wiser. In daily driving, this habit extends vehicle lifespan, especially at busy intersections where it prevents fatigue. The test requires simulating real-world conditions, with safe parking being the top priority. Remember to maintain engine stability and avoid cutting corners that overlook important details.