Should You Learn To Drive Manual Or Automatic
If you’re getting ready to learn to drive, you may be wondering if it’s better to start with a manual or automatic car. Both manual and automatic vehicles have unique advantages and disadvantages, and your choice can impact your overall driving experience as well as your flexibility in driving different vehicles in the future.
In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of learning to drive in both types of cars and provide insights to help you decide which is the best fit for your needs. By the end, you’ll have a clearer understanding of whether you should learn in a manual or go for an automatic transmission.
Should You Learn Manual or Automatic?
The decision between a manual transmission and automatic transmission depends on several factors, such as your driving goals, the type of cars you plan to drive, and your personal preference.
Here’s a closer look at the key considerations:
- Manual Transmission: Learning to drive a manual vehicle involves using a clutch pedal and shifting gears manually. This can be more challenging for new drivers, as it requires mastering the bite point and coordinating your left foot. However, once you pass your test in a manual, you’ll be able to drive both manual and automatic cars without restrictions.
- Automatic Transmission: Learning in an automatic car is usually easier because you only have to focus on accelerating, braking, and steering. Automatic vehicles are less complex to operate, making them a popular choice for many new learner drivers. However, if you pass your test in an automatic, you’ll be restricted to driving automatic vehicles unless you later take a separate test in a manual car.
If You Learn In An Automatic Car, Can You Drive A Manual?
No, if you pass your driving test in an automatic car, your licence will have an automatic-only condition. This means you won’t be legally allowed to drive a manual car until you either pass a separate practical driving test in a manual vehicle or upgrade to a higher licence type (P2 or unrestricted, depending on the state).
If you think you might need to drive a manual car in the future, it could be beneficial to learn to drive in a manual transmission from the start. This way, you’ll have the flexibility to drive either type of car without needing additional tests.
Can You Learn To Drive Manual After Automatic?
Yes, it’s possible to learn to drive in a manual car after passing your test in an automatic. To do this, you’ll need to take additional driving lessons with a professional driving instructor to get comfortable with shifting gears and using the clutch. Once you feel confident driving a manual vehicle, you can book a manual transmission driving test to remove the automatic-only restriction from your licence.
While learning to drive a manual after becoming accustomed to an automatic can take some time, many learners find it easier because they’re already familiar with basic road rules, driving techniques, and handling a vehicle in traffic. The process of learning to drive a manual may require fewer hours of driving lessons than starting from scratch as a complete beginner.
Statistics on Learners Choosing Manual vs. Automatic
The preference for learning in automatic cars has been increasing significantly in Australia. According to a survey, over 70% of 18-27 year-olds across the country hold an automatic licence(Budget Direct). This growing trend is evident in several states, especially in NSW and Queensland:
- New South Wales (NSW): In 2022, only 11% of learners in NSW opted to take their driving test in a manual-equipped car. This number has been steadily decreasing from 19.9% in 2014.
- Queensland (QLD): Similarly, Queensland has seen a decline in the number of learners taking the manual driving test. In 2014, more learners chose a manual transmission test, but in recent years, the majority have shifted towards automatic licences.
- Australia-Wide: The trend is consistent nationwide, with over 70% of learner drivers choosing to learn in an automatic transmission vehicle, reflecting the broader shift in preference.
These statistics suggest that while the flexibility and control offered by a manual car might appeal to some, the convenience and simplicity of automatic vehicles are driving more learners to opt for an automatic licence.
Pros and Cons of Learning to Drive in a Manual vs. Automatic
When deciding whether to learn in a manual or automatic car, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each.
Manual Cars
- Pros:
- Greater Control: Driving a manual offers better control, particularly in challenging driving conditions.
- No Licence Restrictions: If you pass your test in a manual, you can drive both manual and automatic vehicles.
- Fuel Efficiency: Manuals are often more fuel-efficient than automatics.
- Cons:
- Steeper Learning Curve: Requires mastering the clutch, bite point, and gear changes, which can be challenging for beginners.
- More Time-Consuming: You may need additional hours of driving lessons to gain confidence.
Automatic Cars
- Pros:
- Easier to Learn: No need to worry about clutch and gear changes, making it ideal for new drivers.
- Less Stressful: Driving in heavy traffic is easier in an automatic.
- Better for City Driving: Automatics are convenient for stop-start driving.
- Cons:
- Licence Restriction: You won’t be able to drive a manual car unless you take a separate test.
- Higher Cost: Automatic cars can be more expensive to purchase and maintain.
Learn To Drive With LTrent
So, should you learn in a manual or automatic car? It ultimately comes down to your personal preference, driving goals, and future needs. If you’re looking for a straightforward learning experience and don’t foresee needing to drive a manual, then choosing an automatic licence might be the best option. However, if you want the flexibility to drive both manual and automatic cars, it’s worth taking on the challenge of learning in a manual.
Whichever you choose, getting professional guidance from a driving instructor will help you build the necessary driving skills and confidence to pass your driving test. Ready to start your journey? Contact LTrent Driving School today to book your lessons and take the first step towards becoming a safe and confident driver!