Why is there a 5-point deduction for lighting in Subject 3?
4 Answers
According to the "Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driving Licenses," the reason for a 5-point deduction in Subject 3 lighting is not using high beams when driving on roads with no or poor lighting. Additionally, before starting the engine in Subject 3, failing to check and adjust the driver's seat, rearview mirrors, or inspect the dashboard; not turning off the engine before exiting the vehicle; and not using the horn appropriately when starting in complex traffic conditions will also result in a 5-point deduction. Other deductions in Subject 3 include: Before stopping, not observing the traffic behind and to the right through the interior and exterior rearview mirrors; failing to stop within the specified distance after the examiner issues the command to pull over; after stopping, the vehicle body exceeding the right edge of the road or the sidewalk edge; before opening the door after stopping, not turning the head to observe the side and rear traffic conditions; and not closing the door after exiting the vehicle, which will result in a 100-point deduction. After stopping, if the vehicle body is more than 30cm away from the right edge of the road or the sidewalk edge; not engaging the parking brake after stopping; or releasing the foot brake before engaging the parking brake will result in a 10-point deduction. Subject 3 Exam Notes: The exam follows instructions. Subject 3 covers up to 16 assessment items from the preparation to the end of the exam. During the exam, follow the voice prompts for operations. Note: Roadside signs are only reminders; wait for the voice announcement before taking action. Stay relaxed and look ahead; don’t be too nervous. Note: During the straight-line driving test, due to the higher speed, the vehicle may easily drift off course. It’s important to look far ahead and avoid gripping the steering wheel too tightly. Pay attention to road markings and reference points. Although the test is conducted on actual roads, there will be corresponding signs in the test area. Follow these signs to understand your position and the test items. In the pull-over area, there will be marked lines on the road—operate according to these lines rather than relying solely on intuition. Gear and speed must match. During the Subject 3 test, start in 1st gear but avoid prolonged low-speed driving in 1st gear. Shift gears promptly to adjust speed accordingly. Remember: accelerate before upshifting and decelerate before downshifting.
A 5-point deduction in the subject three lighting test is usually caused by minor mistakes during the exam, such as failing to turn on the turn signal in time when changing lanes or turning, or forgetting to turn it off after use. These actions will be noted and penalized by the examiner. The use of lights is a key part of the exam standards, with detailed requirements for each step, and any non-compliance may result in a 5-point deduction. When assisting at the driving school, I often see students forgetting the rules due to nervousness, such as using the wrong lights during night simulations or forgetting to turn on the lights when starting. It is recommended to strengthen the practice of lighting operations during regular training, remember the mantra 'turn on the signal five seconds in advance and turn it off after completing the action,' and develop good habits to reduce points deducted, thereby increasing the chances of passing the overall exam.
As an ordinary person who drives frequently, I believe the 5-point deduction for lighting errors in Subject 3 mainly reflects a lack of safety awareness. Improper lighting operations during the test, such as changing lanes without using turn signals, endanger both yourself and others, so the examiner naturally deducts 5 points as a warning. These minor deductions may seem insignificant, but if you make continuous mistakes during the test, the points can accumulate and lead to failure. I've learned from experience that lighting is the 'language' of driving—it must be used precisely to ensure a smooth test. By simulating real-life scenarios more often and developing instinctive reactions, you can easily avoid these small deductions.
In the driving test (Subject 3), a 5-point deduction for lighting errors commonly occurs in specific mistakes such as failing to signal when changing lanes or improper use of nighttime lights. Last time I took the test, I lost 5 points because I turned off the signal too late when making a turn. The test consists of multiple assessment items, with lighting being one of the core components. It requires candidates to strictly follow procedures under simulated conditions—any deviation will trigger point deductions. Intensive practice is key; don’t underestimate these minor mistakes.
