The choice between manual and automatic driving lessons is a tough one, but there's no right or wrong answer. It's all about finding what's right for you.
Automatic driving lessons are perfect for someone who wants to make learning to drive as easy as possible, and speed up their chances of passing first time.
If you choose to learn to drive in an automatic car, your driving lessons won't be hugely different to manual ones.
You'll still cover things like the basic cockpit controls, roundabouts and manoeuvres. The key difference is you won't need to switch gears or use the clutch pedal. That's one less thing to think about!
It's not easy to pass a driving test in the UK, no matter what transmission you choose. But if automatic driving lessons are right for you, you'll find the process easier and might learn more quickly.
Driving lessons, whether you choose manual or automatic, are essential for building your skills and confidence on the road. Though around 70% of UK drivers use manual transmission, the increasing popularity of automatic cars shows that there are plenty of things going for them. Some of the main pros of choosing to go auto are:
With an auto, you won't have to worry about clutch control or wearing your clutch out. You'll also avoid the sudden stopping and starting that drives manual drivers insane in an inner-city traffic jam, as well as those dreaded hill starts.
Ready to get behind the wheel with our intensive automatic driving courses?
Learning to drive in an automatic car is a great idea for a lot of people, including nervous or disabled drivers, and those who want a quicker and easier experience. But if you're on a budget or you want to have more choices for your first new car, manual could be the way for you.
If you pass your driving test in a manual car, you'll be able to drive both manual and automatic cars. This will give you more options when it comes to buying your first car. However, the sale of new manual cars will be banned by 2035, so in time you'll probably switch over to automatic anyway.
Whether you're interested in the simplicity and ease of an automatic car or thinking about learning manual as well, we've got you covered. For more information on manual driving lessons, click below.
Want to learn more about the difference between manual and automatic cars? Whether you're looking to understand how they work, figure out which one suits you best or deciding what kind of vehicle you want to learn in, understanding the key distinctions can help you make an informed choice. You can read all about it in our handy guide on automatic vs. manual.
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Learning in an automatic isn't necessarily an easier option. If you're struggling with common issues such as observation, switching from manual to automatic will make little difference. If, however, you're experiencing difficulty with gear changes or clutch control, you're likely to benefit significantly from learning in an automatic. To discuss your needs with a member of our team, call us on 0333 123 4949.
Despite the common perception of automatics as 'easier' to drive, pass rates in automatic cars are typically lower than those in manual cars. Nonetheless, thousands of learners still manage to get their licence in automatics every year—so, if you've got your heart set on an auto, don't be dissuaded by the stats!
Automatic cars are more fuel-intensive, as well as being more expensive to purchase and service. Additionally, most instructors drive manual cars, with a much smaller number of automatics on the road. This means that prices for automatic lessons are typically higher than those of manual lessons.
Nope—if you pass in a manual car, you'll be free to drive vehicles of either transmission after you pass.
No—if you pass your test in an automatic car, you will only legally be allowed to drive automatic cars. You'll need to pass again in a manual car if you wish to change transmission.
We offer automatic courses in all of the areas we cover, including major cities such as London, Manchester, Birmingham and Leeds.
In a manual car, you'll need to change gears yourself, but in an automatic car the gearbox makes the decision. If you learn in an auto, you won't have to learn how to change gears or deal with a clutch pedal.
This may be possible in certain circumstances. Please contact the office if you wish to change transmission.
The DVSA recommends taking around 45 hours of professional tuition before your test. Everyone learns differently, and some may need more or less than this. Learning to drive in an automatic is easier because you have fewer skills to learn, so if you’re confident or experienced, you might not need as many lessons as you would in a manual.
Our team of experts will fast-track your driving test, cutting the DVSA wait times by weeks or even months. Whether you’re a beginner or almost there, we have a course to suit what you need. If you want to know more, give our friendly team a call on 0333 123 4949. Ready to pass? Book online now.
Automatic driving lessons are slightly more expensive than manual. The difference in price isn’t as large as it used to be, though. Learning to drive in an automatic may actually work out cheaper in the long run — some people don’t need as many lessons in an automatic. To see prices in your area, visit our prices page and pop in your postcode.
You could be the proud new owner of a full driving licence in as little as 2 months. The DVSA has a long waiting list after the COVID backlog, but we’ll slash your waiting time. Our expert team will fast-track your automatic driving test. After that, we’ll assign you to a DVSA-registered driving instructor who’ll teach you everything you need to know about automatic driving.
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