Which gear to stop at when encountering a red light in Subject 3?

[LondonRose]

Subject 3 requires stopping in first or second gear when encountering a red light. Below are the relevant details: Gear shifting process when encountering a red light in Subject 3: Gently apply the brake to gradually reduce the vehicle speed to second or first gear. After slowing down, press the clutch. Depress the clutch fully with your left foot, press the brake with your right foot, and after the vehicle comes to a complete stop, shift to neutral and engage the handbrake. Subject 3 is the road driving skills test, also known as the road test. When stopping at a red light during the test, be careful not to wait in first gear, ensure the front of the car does not cross the line, and avoid stalling the engine. Precautions for the Subject 3 test: Stay relaxed; most examiners (police officers) are serious, but don't be too afraid. Shift gears promptly; it's best not to drive in third gear all the way.

[DelArabella]

I just finished the third driving test and still remember the parking gears vividly. When encountering a red light, the instructor always emphasized slowing down early, pressing the clutch and brake in advance, and immediately shifting to first gear after a steady stop. Why is shifting to first gear necessary? During the test, if you encounter a slight slope, first gear can lock the wheels, preventing the car from rolling back and getting points deducted by the examiner. On flat roads, shifting to neutral is also acceptable, but the test rules are strict, and you must develop the habit of shifting to first gear to prevent accidents. When waiting at a red light, don’t rush; keep the brake pressed and prepare to start. As soon as the light turns green, release the clutch and accelerate—this operation is safe and standard. During my practice, I often forgot to shift gears when parking on slopes, almost causing accidents. Now I understand that details determine success or failure, and I recommend that new drivers simulate this scenario more often while learning.

[LaWeston]

I remember when I was learning to drive, stopping at a red light during Subject 3 was nerve-wracking. The instructor always said to quickly shift into first gear after stopping to prevent rolling, especially at the slope test point. Looking back now, the principle is simple: first gear provides an extra layer of engine braking compared to neutral, reducing the risk of relying solely on the brakes. You can also shift into first gear when stopping on flat ground, but the test requires consistent execution of this step to avoid examiners nitpicking. When stopping, operate steadily—don’t panic-adjust your seat or check your phone. After the light turns green, shift into first gear and start smoothly to pass. I recommend practicing with a partner to simulate the test; once you’re familiar, you won’t fear fumbling.

[Ricky]

When stopping at a red light during a driving test, you should shift into first gear. This is because first gear utilizes engine braking to prevent the vehicle from unintentionally rolling on slopes and reduces brake wear. Manual transmission vehicles must follow this procedure, as examiners observe this detail during tests. Shifting into neutral may result in safety point deductions. The operation is simple: after slowing down to a stop, shift into first gear to maintain stability, then proceed when the light turns green. Remembering this step will help you pass the test with ease.