The Traffic Police Department (Ministry of Public Security) has issued a stern warning against the use of "tricks" by candidates during practical driving tests, following the discovery of online videos promoting such methods. The department identified instances where driving instructors are teaching candidates these deceptive tactics to bypass test requirements, discovered through online monitoring.

One specific example highlighted by the Traffic Police Department involves a video instructing candidates on the "passing the wheel track and narrow right-angle turn" section. The instructor in the video advises students to intentionally drive only through the end of the wheel track, accepting a 10-point deduction to complete the test.

Video shows instructor teaching tricks to students. Video: Traffic Police Department

The Traffic Police Department emphasizes that such instruction misrepresents test requirements and distorts the purpose of driver education and assessment. This approach fails to evaluate a driver's ability to align a vehicle in narrow spaces. According to Appendix 05 of Circular 12/2025, if a vehicle's front and rear passenger-side wheels fail to pass through the designated wheel track area, the automated system will deduct points to a failing score, leading to test suspension by the examiner. Point deductions for merely touching a line apply only if the wheels remain within the designated area.

To uphold the integrity and objectivity of driving tests, the Traffic Police Department will instruct local forces to intensify supervision of the examination process. Candidates found violating test regulations, particularly those intentionally employing "test tricks" to bypass assessment, will face disciplinary action.

These warnings come amidst reforms implemented by the Traffic Police Department, which began adjusting driving test content from mid-4/2026 to better align with real traffic conditions. A requirement mandates candidates to watch accident videos before their test, aiming to enhance safety awareness. The department also noted that earlier test procedures emphasized basic skills, particularly in the road test, and now requires candidates to demonstrate flexible handling of real scenarios, moving beyond the previous 2 km fixed route.

These reforms have impacted pass rates across test components. Following the changes, the pass rate for the car road test has fallen to 68% from a previous 96%. The theoretical test pass rate also saw a slight decrease to 74% from 77%, while the practical driving test pass rate remains at 65%. Since the Traffic Police took over driving test administration from 1/3/2025 to 7/5/2026, the overall pass rates stand at 54% for cars and 65% for motorcycles.

Viet An