Will checking the dashboard result in point deduction in Subject 3?
3 Answers
Checking the dashboard will not result in point deduction if it does not affect the completion of required driving test items. Below is relevant information about Subject 3: Subject 3 includes the road driving skills test and the safety and civilized driving knowledge test, which are part of the motor vehicle driver's license assessment. It is the abbreviation for the road driving skills and safety and civilized driving knowledge test in the motor vehicle driver's examination. The content of the road driving skills test varies for different types of vehicles eligible for driving. Test content includes: preparation before getting on the vehicle, simulated lighting test, starting, driving straight, gear shifting operation, changing lanes, pulling over, going straight through intersections, turning left at intersections, turning right at intersections, passing pedestrian crossings, passing school zones, passing bus stops, meeting vehicles, overtaking, making U-turns, and driving at night. The safety and civilized driving knowledge test generally includes: requirements for safe and civilized driving operations, safe driving knowledge under adverse weather and complex road conditions, emergency handling methods for situations such as tire blowouts, and knowledge of handling after traffic accidents.
As a novice who just passed the third driving test, I can tell you that staring at the dashboard can indeed cost you points. During my test, I was warned by the examiner for constantly looking at the speedometer. He said this kind of distracted driving makes it easy to overlook road conditions and traffic signals, and examiners will deduct points according to the test standards. In fact, it's okay to quickly glance at the speedometer to check if you're speeding, but you shouldn't look down frequently or for too long, as it shows poor speed control. During practice, pay more attention to listening to the engine sound or estimating speed by feel to reduce reliance on the dashboard, which will help you pass the test more smoothly. After all, the core of safe driving is to be observant and alert—don’t let small mistakes ruin your overall performance.
I've taught many students to take the driving test, and checking the dashboard during Subject 3 can indeed lead to point deductions. The examiner evaluates your overall driving safety. If you frequently look down, they may think you're distracted and prone to overlooking pedestrians or vehicles, leading to mistakes. Of course, occasionally glancing to check your speed is necessary, especially in speed-limited zones, but don't let your eyes linger on the dashboard for more than a second. I recommend practicing smooth acceleration and braking regularly to develop the habit of scanning the dashboard with your peripheral vision. Familiarize yourself with the test vehicle's condition before the exam to understand speed variations, which can reduce unnecessary panic. In short, the dashboard is an aid, not the focus—safe driving is the key.
