The key difference
If you pass your test in a manual car, your licence lets you drive both manual and automatic cars. If you pass in an automatic, your licence is limited to automatic cars. To drive a manual later, you’d need to sit another test in a manual.
Why I teach manual
A manual pass keeps every option open: family cars, work vans, hire cars abroad, whatever comes along. That’s why all my car lessons are in a manual, dual-control school car. I don’t offer automatic lessons.
Is manual harder to learn?
It takes a bit more practice at the start, mainly clutch control and changing gear. For most people it clicks faster than they expect. Lisa told me the gearbox was her biggest worry, and after three lessons it was almost second nature.
What it costs
My lessons are €45 an hour, booked as two-hour sessions (€90). First-time learners need 12 EDT lessons, which come to €540 in total. See all prices on my pricing page.
Questions
Can I drive an automatic with a manual licence?
Yes. A manual pass covers both manual and automatic cars.
Can I drive a manual with an automatic licence?
No. An automatic pass limits your licence to automatic cars.
Do you teach automatic?
No. I teach in a manual, dual-control car only.
Written by Vlastislav Obsil, RSA-approved driving instructor (ADI 42951) and IBT instructor at Raven Driving Training in Rathfarnham. I teach car and motorcycle lessons myself, and most of my students call me Vlastik. More about me.
Learn in a manual car
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