Will stepping on the accelerator during a hill start result in penalty points?
2 Answers
Stepping on the accelerator during a hill start will not result in penalty points. Here are the precautions for hill starts in Subject 3 of the driving test: 1. Lifting the clutch: When lifting the clutch, observe the RPM or engine sound. When the RPM is appropriate or the engine emits a low sound, slow down the speed of lifting the clutch and then gently press the accelerator. 2. Preventing rollback: Before releasing the handbrake, it's best to observe the road conditions ahead. If it's an uphill or downhill slope, it's advisable to press the brake with your right foot, slowly release the clutch, and when the car body starts to shake significantly, stabilize the clutch pedal with your left foot without moving, then slowly release the brake with your right foot. When the car starts moving, fully release the brake.
I was particularly nervous during the hill start section of my driving test. During practice, I kept stalling, and the instructor said, 'Don't be afraid to step on the gas.' Actually, pressing the accelerator itself doesn't incur penalties in the test rules; the key is the overall operation. For example, improper coordination between the accelerator and clutch that causes the car to roll back more than 30 centimeters or stall will result in penalties. I remember that day, I carefully tapped the accelerator, the car started smoothly without any penalties, and I passed. During the beginner phase, it's important to practice coordinating the rhythm of the clutch, brake, and accelerator to ensure a safe test—just stay calm.