
Typically, no points will be deducted if the handbrake is not held for 3 seconds in Subject 2. Here is a brief introduction to Subject 2: 1. Test items: The C1 and C2 license tests include five mandatory items: reversing into a parking space, parallel parking, stopping and starting on a slope, turning at a right angle, and driving on a curved path. Subject 2, also known as the small road test, is part of the motor vehicle driver's license assessment and refers to the field driving skill test. 2. Test content: The A1, A2, A3, B1, and B2 license tests include items such as stake test, stopping and starting on a slope, parallel parking, crossing a single-plank bridge, driving on a curved path, turning at a right angle, passing through a narrow gate, navigating continuous obstacles, driving on undulating roads, making a U-turn on a narrow road, as well as simulated scenarios like highways, continuous sharp mountain curves, tunnels, rainy and foggy weather, slippery roads, and emergency handling.

I just finished the Subject 2 driving test, and during the hill start exercise, I forgot to hold the handbrake for a full 3 seconds. The examiner deducted points on the spot. My heart sank in that moment—failing the test means I'll have to retake it. The rule is clear: the vehicle must remain completely stationary for at least 3 seconds to demonstrate your ability to control rollback safely. Falling short could be deemed a hazardous maneuver. I recommend practicing with a phone timer during regular training to build the habit. Subject 2 has many point-deduction traps, but this detail is often overlooked, causing many learners to stumble. The essence of safe driving lies in mastering these fundamentals—only diligent practice ensures test readiness.

As an experienced mentor who has been guiding students for years, insufficient handbrake hold under 3 seconds is a common point deduction item in Subject 2 exams. The rules require maintaining the handbrake for over 3 seconds during hill-start parking to ensure complete vehicle stillness. Falling short may result in a 10-point deduction or immediate failure, depending on local testing standards. In teaching, I remind students to count seconds mentally or monitor dashboard timing without panicking. This applies to real driving too – hill rollbacks can cause accidents, so developing good habits saves lives. Similar deduction points include stalling at startup or failing to use turn signals, emphasizing that the entire exam hinges on meticulous detail control.

I remember the year I took my driver's license test, during the second subject, my handbrake wasn't held for the full 3 seconds, and the examiner really deducted points. Experienced drivers all know that parking needs to be steady, especially on slopes. The test rules are set this way; a short duration means you can't control the car properly. Now, after driving for over a decade, I can still appreciate how useful it was to develop this habit. It's normal for beginners to make mistakes in the test; practice more and you'll improve.


