Stricter driving test in China

China's new traffic regulations came into effect last Tuesday. Apart from complaints regarding the new rules on stopping at a yellow light, those preparing to take their driving tests are also feeling under more pressure as a result of the new traffic law amendment.

Those who leave studying for their driving test to the last minute, may find themselves caught out.

The pass rate for the amended theory test in Yuyang City of East China's Zhejiang Province has fallen to 10% compared with 80% under the old test.

One resident said, "For people like us who have never driven before, it's really hard to understand all the concepts."

One candidate said, "The questions are very open. And there are some new points not covered in the textbooks or on the internet."

The new theory test is divided into five parts and almost half of it is presented in graphics.

The questions are set in real-time situations which require more than just memorizing information.

Yan Qing, Traffic Management bureau of Jiangjin, said, "Because there's no template test online, candidates won't be able to pass this test by just memorising answers. They'll have to learn the relevant rules, familiarise themselves with technical terms and try to understand them."

Last Friday, the new practical driving test came into effect. Here at the test area in Chongqing, only one third of candidates passed. The test is more practical and more rigorous.

One difference is that there are no longer helpful reference markings to refer to when reversing, as was the case under the previous test.

By Monday, however, the practical pass rate had already climbed back up to 49%. Under the new regulations, using a handheld cellphone is prohibited whilst driving, and blue tooth headsets are becoming a must-have for drivers.

However, experts say, even with the headsets, calling or answering a cellphone whilst driving could still potentially distract drivers.

So to make sure you don't lose your license, it's better and safer for you to use your cellphone after you've stopped the vehicle.

According to the latest official statistics, road accidents in major cities like Beijing have decreased since the new regulations took effect.