Before your first lesson you will need to decide whether to learn in a manual or an automatic car. Neither is the “right” choice for everyone. It depends on where you live, what you plan to drive afterwards and how you feel about learning.
Learning in a manual car
In a manual car you use a clutch pedal and a gear stick to change gear yourself. It takes practice to move off smoothly, change gear at the right time and start on a hill without rolling back.
- You learn more controls at once, which can take a few extra lessons.
- Once you have learned, you can usually drive both manual and automatic cars.
- Manual cars are still common in some countries, including many used and rental cars.
Learning in an automatic car
An automatic car changes gear for you. You mainly use the accelerator, the brake and the steering, which leaves more attention free for the road, other drivers and planning ahead.
- Many learners find it easier to get started, especially in busy town traffic.
- It suits nervous learners and people returning to driving after a long break.
- In some countries, such as the United Kingdom, passing your test in an automatic gives you a licence for automatic cars only.
How to decide
- Check the licence rules where you live, so you know what each test allows you to drive.
- Think about the car you are likely to drive after you pass, at home or at work.
- If you are unsure, book one lesson in each and see how you feel.
Licence and test rules differ from place to place. Check the current rules with your licensing authority, and ask your instructor what applies to you.