When Can You Get Your Driver's License After Passing Subject 4?
3 Answers
After passing Subject 4, you can receive your license on-site, usually within about 2 hours. Subject 4, also known as the Subject 4 Theory Test or Driver's Theory Test, is part of the motor vehicle driver's license examination. The main content includes: safe and civilized driving operation requirements, safe driving knowledge under adverse weather and complex road conditions, emergency handling methods for situations like tire blowouts, and post-accident handling knowledge. The Subject 4 test consists of 50 questions, presented in the form of case studies, images, animations, etc. The maximum score is 100, with a passing score of 90. After the implementation of the Ministry of Public Security's Order No. 123, the Subject 3 test was divided into two parts: the road test and the addition of a safety and common sense test, commonly known as "Subject 4," which assesses "driving ethics." Because this test is conducted after Subject 3, it is commonly referred to as the Subject 4 test. Officially, there is no Subject 4. Before the test, students can study traffic regulations through driver's license simulation test software on mobile devices or computers.
The day I passed the fourth subject test, I got my driver's license right at the test site—the whole process was super fast! Generally, as long as you pass the exam, most places process it quickly, possibly on the same day or after a short wait at the DMV. In my case, the staff at the test center directly informed me where to collect it, and it was done in less than half an hour. However, if it's peak time or the DMV in the city is busy, it might take 1-2 business days. It's advisable to proactively ask about the expected time after the test and ensure your phone is on to receive SMS notifications. Don’t forget to bring your ID to avoid making an extra trip. The mailing option is more convenient; some cities offer free home delivery, and receiving it within 2 days is common. Remember not to be too nervous when you start driving after getting the license—practice in an empty area to get the hang of it, safety first. The entire process usually completes within a week, so don’t rush. Understanding local policies better will make it smoother.
From my experience, obtaining the driver's license after passing Subject 4 usually takes 1-3 days. The exact time depends on regional procedures: in larger cities like Beijing or Shanghai, you might wait an extra day for document processing; smaller areas such as county towns are often much faster, with same-day issuance being common. I recommend checking the standard processing time on the DMV website before the test or asking the staff for details immediately after the exam. If there's a temporary license option, you can use it for a day or two in emergencies right after passing, ensuring your travel plans aren't disrupted. Don't forget to confirm that all subjects are passed and there are no pending reviews. If there's a delay, don't panic—call the traffic department to inquire about the reason, and have your ID ready for verification. In short, efficient preparation can help avoid unnecessary waiting frustrations.
