What are the changes in the new Subject 3 regulations?
2 Answers
Introduction to the changes in the new Subject 3 regulations: 1. Starting: 1. Original standard: Lower head to observe traffic conditions behind; 2. Revised: Turn head to observe traffic conditions behind; 2. Changing lanes: 1. Original standard: Observe traffic conditions behind through interior and exterior rearview mirrors; 2. Revised: Observe through interior and exterior rearview mirrors and turn head to observe traffic conditions behind in the direction of lane change; 3. Pulling over: 1. Original standard: Slow down, turn right to pull over, and stop smoothly; 2. Revised: Turn head to observe and confirm safety, then slow down, turn right to pull over, and stop smoothly. If exiting the vehicle, turn head to observe traffic conditions behind on the left, confirm safety, slowly open the door, exit, and close the door; 4. Overtaking: 1. Original standard: Observe traffic conditions on the left, turn on left turn signal, and choose a reasonable time; 2. Revised: Turn on left turn signal, observe traffic conditions behind and on the left through interior and exterior rearview mirrors, turn head to observe and confirm safety, then choose a reasonable time; 3. Original standard: After overtaking, without affecting the normal driving of the overtaken vehicle, turn on right turn signal, gradually return to the original lane, and turn off the turn signal; 4. Revised: After overtaking, turn on right turn signal, observe traffic conditions behind and on the right through interior and exterior rearview mirrors, turn head to observe and confirm that it does not affect the normal driving of the overtaken vehicle, then gradually return to the original lane and turn off the turn signal; 5. U-turn: 1. Original standard: Reduce speed, observe traffic conditions, correctly choose the location and time for U-turn, signal for U-turn, then make the turn; 3. Revised: Observe traffic conditions ahead and behind, confirm safety, slow down or stop, turn on left turn signal, then make the U-turn.
I just got my driver's license last year, and recently my instructor mentioned there have been quite a few changes to the Subject 3 test. Now, during the starting phase, you must turn your head to observe, whereas before you only needed to check the rearview mirror. The simulated lighting test has become more random, with questions no longer following a fixed sequence. The major changes involve stricter scoring on details—for example, when turning or changing lanes, the turn signal must be on for at least 3 seconds before steering, or you'll fail immediately if you move too soon. The parallel parking requirement has also tightened; previously, you could adjust your position by touching the dashed line, but now even a slight wheel contact with the line means disqualification. I heard some regions have even added an overtaking maneuver to the test. Specific implementation depends on local DMV regulations, so it's best to ask your instructor for the latest exam highlights, as standards may vary by region.
