Were there any additional driving test items added after October 2021?
4 Answers
There were no additional driving test items added after October 2021, only some detailed changes. Here are the specific changes regarding the driving test: 1. Starting: For situations requiring turn signals such as lane changes, failure to use or incorrect use of the turn signal by the examinee will now result in failure instead of a 10-point deduction. 2. Subject 3: A mandatory overtaking item has been added. Failing to overtake as required will result in failure. If a following vehicle intends to overtake, the examinee must yield under appropriate conditions; otherwise, a 10-point deduction will apply. 3. Nighttime lighting: During the simulation test, listen carefully to the instructions before acting; do not answer prematurely. 4. Situations requiring turn signals in Subject 3: starting, changing lanes, overtaking, turning, making a U-turn, and pulling over. Among these, starting, overtaking, and making a U-turn must use the left turn signal, while pulling over must use the right turn signal. Using the wrong signal is not allowed.
I just got my driver's license last year. I remember when I was learning to drive at the end of 2021, the instructor mentioned that the exam rules had become stricter, specifically adding new test items like simulating highway toll card collection and tunnel driving, which weren't tested before. Now, you have to be proficient in these operations to pass. During my practice sessions, I went through a lot—sitting in the car on hot days simulating various scenarios, like how to turn on lights and slow down when it suddenly rains or there's heavy fog. It really improved my practical driving skills. For new drivers, the exam now takes a bit longer, and the cost has slightly increased, but it teaches us that driving isn't just about going straight—you need to handle complex road conditions. Overall, learning these extra skills is beneficial; it makes you more confident when driving alone later on, so you won't panic when you hit the road.
I worked at a driving school for several years and clearly noticed the updated exam syllabus after October 2021, which added several new key sections. For example, the simulated rain and fog weather test requires students to quickly turn on fog lights and control speed in a virtual environment; there's also an obstacle avoidance exercise added next to the reverse parking to prevent scratches. These additions are designed to help beginners build a solid foundation—failing to perform correctly during the exam results in an immediate fail. Our teaching now emphasizes safety details more, not just rote memorization of checkpoints. Initially, students find it troublesome, but once they master it, they're better prepared to handle sudden accidents on the road with fewer incidents. I recommend those preparing for the exam to start simulated training early and not skimp on that time.
In recent years, the government has introduced new traffic policies. Since October 2021, the driving license test has been expanded with additional items such as tunnel driving simulation and emergency parking training, aiming to enhance drivers' safety awareness. I've read official documents stating that these changes address the worsening urban congestion issues, ensuring that candidates learn how to yield and handle emergencies during the test. The actual impact includes a temporary drop in pass rates but an improvement in accident rates. Driving lessons must now follow the new standards—don’t assume the old methods can still get you through.
