Automatic or manual

I get asked this question a lot.

Learning in automatic takes all the gear changing and clutch control away from the driver leaving them to concentrate more on the road and what’s going on around them. Automatic comes into its own in stop-go traffic as there’s no need to be constantly using the clutch.

Learning in manual means the driver must change gears and manage clutch control themselves as well as concentrate on the road and what’s going on around them.

There are more automatic vehicles on the road now than ever before and obtaining an automatic car is as easy as getting a manual nowadays.

I personally have driven many manual vehicles including cars, vans and trucks but I would choose automatic if I had the choice as it provides for fewer driving tasks and allows me to direct more concentration to what’s going on outside of the vehicle.

One thing to consider is that that if an applicant passes their driving test in a manual car, they can then drive either manual or automatic vehicles. However, if an applicant passes in an automatic vehicle they can only drive vehicles with an automatic gear box, and they will have code 78 added to their full licence.

If you need more information or have concerns please don’t hesitate to contact me, I’d be more than happy to help.