
Both subjects are theoretical exams. Subject 1 focuses on driving knowledge, while Subject 4 emphasizes safety knowledge. The questions in Subject 4 often do not require rote memorization, as the correct answers can be deduced through practical reasoning. Subject 1, however, includes more memory-based content such as traffic police hand signals and road sign markings. In this regard, Subject 1 is relatively more challenging. Exam content for Subject 1: Basic knowledge of motor vehicles; laws, regulations, and road traffic signals; fundamentals of safe and civilized driving; basic knowledge related to motor vehicle operation. Exam content for Subject 4: Requirements for safe and civilized driving operations; safe driving knowledge under adverse weather and complex road conditions; emergency handling methods for situations like tire blowouts; and knowledge on post-traffic accident procedures.

Subject 1 tests traffic laws, regulations, and basic theories, such as the meanings of various traffic signs, traffic light rules, and fundamental driving operation requirements. It consists entirely of multiple-choice and true/false questions on theoretical knowledge, which must be completed via a computer-based written exam. As a new driver who just obtained my license, I found this section required extensive memorization, but understanding the principles helped me make fewer mistakes while driving—for example, remembering right-of-way rules to avoid rear-end collisions. Subject 4, on the other hand, focuses on safe and civilized driving practices, covering topics like emergency handling, adverse weather responses, and driving ethics. It features more scenario-based multiple-choice questions that simulate real situations, emphasizing decision-making skills. From my personal experience, I used a mobile app to drill through question banks for Subject 1, while for Subject 4, I watched case study videos to reinforce my memory. After passing, I noticed a significant improvement in my daily driving alertness, especially feeling more confident during nighttime driving.

In driving school instruction, students often ask me about the difference between Subject 1 and Subject 4. Subject 1 focuses on the traffic law system, including road regulations and basic vehicle knowledge, such as speed limit classifications and accident liability determination. Subject 4 revolves around safety awareness and risk prevention, such as defensive driving techniques, humanitarian rescue methods, and avoiding distracted driving—these elements help cultivate long-term safe habits. Based on my experience, I recommend that students preparing for Subject 1 concentrate on conceptual organization and practice with mock exams, while for Subject 4, they should analyze real accident cases to enhance situational judgment. Passing the test is not the end goal; mastering this knowledge is highly useful for reducing urban congestion and highway accidents. Developing standardized operations ensures safer and more worry-free driving.

Parents are most concerned about safety when their child is preparing to take the driver's license test. Subject 1 assesses foundational knowledge of laws and regulations, such as traffic signals and driving norms, ensuring an understanding of basic rules. Subject 4 tests safety and civilized driving knowledge, like the risks of drunk driving or handling sudden breakdowns, which directly impact lives. While supervising their child's study, parents notice them repeatedly practicing with question bank apps—Subject 1 involves heavy memorization and can be tiring, while Subject 4 emphasizes practical understanding and application. These exams help shape a sense of driving responsibility and ethics, especially in urban driving, where avoiding reckless behavior protects both oneself and others—a top priority.


