What are the benefits of taking Subject 3 before Subject 2 in the driving test?
3 Answers
Everything has two sides. Taking Subject 3 before Subject 2 has disadvantages as well as advantages. The specific information is as follows: 1. Benefits: Taking Subject 3 first can speed up the process of obtaining the license, because the test sessions for Subject 3 are relatively fewer and harder to schedule. Taking it first can reduce competition with other trainees in the same batch. Subject 2 is relatively easier to schedule, so taking Subject 3 first and then Subject 2 will be less stressful, and more time can be allocated for practicing Subject 2. 2. Boosting confidence: Passing Subject 3 can improve the trainee's road driving skills and, to some extent, increase their confidence.
I actually took the road test (Subject 3) before the parking test (Subject 2) back then, and the biggest advantage was significantly reduced psychological pressure. Driving on actual roads for Subject 3 made me feel like I could actually drive after passing it. When I went back to practice parking maneuvers like reverse parking and parallel parking in Subject 2, I was much more relaxed. Being already familiar with vehicle control and traffic rules made it easier to master the reference points in Subject 2. Moreover, with this test sequence, passing Subject 3 first greatly boosted my driving confidence, so making mistakes during Subject 2 practice didn't cause much anxiety. Several students at our driving school tried this sequence, and the pass rate was noticeably higher. I'd recommend giving this order a try.
As a driving instructor, I think it's quite reasonable to take the Subject 3 test first. Students can learn to judge distances and control speed in real traffic conditions, which is very helpful for Subject 2. For example, when reversing into a parking space, they can control the steering wheel and throttle more precisely. Moreover, the Subject 3 test items are relatively continuous, unlike Subject 2 which requires rote memorization of specific points. Passing Subject 3 first and then tackling Subject 2 makes students less likely to develop a dislike for learning. Among the students I've coached with this arrangement, most can get their license within two months.
