Final answer:
It's impossible to determine if the statement 'Shifting gears is not permitted' is true or false without additional context. The phrase generally refers to a permissible action in driving but could be true under specific circumstances.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement 'Shifting gears is not permitted' can be either true or false depending on the context in which it is used. However, without additional information such as the subject matter or the context in which this question is being asked, it's impossible to provide a definitive answer. Shifting gears typically refers to changing speeds in a vehicle by adjusting the transmission, an action that is generally permitted and necessary for the operation of the vehicle. In some specific situations, like a vehicle with a failing transmission or in a test environment where shifting gears might be explicitly prohibited for the purpose of the test, the statement could be true.