What gear should be used when passing through a traffic light in Subject 3?

[LeTheo]

When starting from a traffic light in Subject 3, use first gear. You can shift to second gear when reaching the middle of the intersection, and then shift to third gear after exiting the intersection. Follow the voice instructions: Listen carefully to the voice instructions during Subject 3 and follow them accordingly. Remember not to perform any actions before the voice instruction ends; always wait until the instruction is complete before proceeding to the next step. Pay attention to special zones: In many areas, the voice instructions no longer remind candidates of special zones such as school zones, bus stops, and crosswalks. However, candidates must perform corresponding deceleration or yielding actions based on the project signs and road markings. For school zones, apply the brakes 10 meters before the project sign, keeping the speed below 30 km/h. For bus stops, apply the brakes 10 meters before the project sign, keeping the speed below 30 km/h. For crosswalks, decelerate by applying the brakes within 30 meters before the crosswalk, and stop to yield if pedestrians are crossing.

[DelCali]

When instructing students in the coaching car, I often remind them that gear operation during traffic lights is crucial for the Category 3 driving test. If stopping at a red light line, always start in first gear by gently pressing the clutch and slowly applying throttle to avoid stalling. For green lights without stopping, shift directly to second gear and maintain a low speed of 20-30 km/h. During the test, gear selection must match the vehicle speed—second gear is ideal for intersections, as higher gears like third may cause excessive acceleration, leading to point deductions by the examiner. The test evaluates safety, observation, and smoothness: always check left and right before starting at red lights, and slow down when proceeding through greens. Many beginners neglect this, resulting in jerky gear changes and vehicle wobbling—practice coordinated starts and shifts regularly. Additionally, operate gears more slowly on wet rainy roads to ensure flawless execution.

[OIvan]

As a candidate who just passed the Subject 3 test, I personally experienced gear selection at traffic lights. When stopping at a red light, I would start in first gear, coordinating the clutch and throttle gently to avoid stalling from rushing. If the light stays green without stopping, my instructor taught me to pass through in second gear at low speed, around 20 km/h. During the test, incorrect gear selection can draw the examiner's attention—I once lost points for rushing through in third gear. The key isn't the gear number but smooth operation and safety first. Don't forget to check traffic on both sides; even at a green light, confirm no pedestrians are jaywalking. Personally, I find practicing low-gear scenarios at simulated intersections more helpful.

[MaddoxLee]

Having driven for decades, I don't think there's much fuss about passing traffic lights in Subject 3. When stopping at a red light, just start smoothly in first gear; if it's green and you don't need to stop, shift directly to second gear and pass through at low speed. Don't be too rigid with gear selection—the key is to slow down, observe, and pass safely. Selecting the wrong gear during the test isn't a major mistake, but operational errors will cost points. I recommend that beginners practice shifting to second gear and maintaining low speed at intersections—around 20 km/h is sufficient, as going faster can make the car unstable.

[VanDominic]

From a safety perspective, gear shifting during traffic lights in the Subject 3 driving test must be standardized. When stopping at a red light, you must start in first gear and control the clutch slowly; if the light is green and you don't stop, shift to second gear and maintain a low speed to ensure timely braking. The gear should match the vehicle speed, with second gear being most suitable for 20-30 km/h. During the test, starting too abruptly or shifting to a higher gear can easily cause stalling or speeding, which are points of deduction. Remember, the overall focus is on safety—slow down at intersections and always check for traffic light changes on both sides.