Which Gear to Start In?
1 Answers
During the Category 3 driving test, you must start in first gear as required, then shift up or down based on vehicle speed. When upshifting in the Category 3 test, you must sequentially shift gears as instructed - you cannot jump directly from first gear to third gear. Upon hearing the voice prompt "Please complete the gear shifting operation," the candidate should adjust to second gear, then sequentially shift up to fifth gear. In fifth gear, the speed must exceed 40km/h before sequentially downshifting back to second gear. Relevant information about starting procedures: Starting procedure: Shift into gear (first gear); Honk (press horn to warn nearby vehicles or pedestrians); Turn signal (activate left turn signal to inform following vehicles); Check side mirrors and rearview mirror (confirm no approaching vehicles to avoid hazards after starting); Half-clutch (provides power for vehicle movement during start); Maintain throttle to keep RPM above 1000 (ensures continuous forward momentum). Common mistakes: The most frequent mistake during starting is engine stalling, primarily caused by: Not fully depressing the clutch when braking hard; Failing to maintain proper half-clutch position during start. Solutions: Always fully depress the clutch before hard braking; During starting, keep the clutch at half-engagement while gently applying throttle - the right foot's throttle pressure should match the left foot's clutch release pressure.
