Manual or Automatic Driving Lessons: Which Is Right for You?

Not sure whether to learn manual or automatic? Abbies Driving School in East London explains the pros and cons to help you choose.

One of the first decisions every learner makes is whether to learn in a manual or an automatic car. At Abbies Driving School we teach both across East London and Essex, so here is an honest guide to help you choose.

Learning in a manual

A full manual licence lets you drive any car, manual or automatic. It is the most flexible option and often preferred if you might drive work vehicles or want the widest choice when buying a car. The trade-off is that there is more to learn, clutch control, gear changes, hill starts, so it can take a little longer.

Learning in an automatic

Automatic lessons remove the clutch and gears, so you focus purely on steering, observation and road position. Many learners find it less stressful and pass sooner. The catch is that an automatic licence only lets you drive automatic cars.

Which should you pick?

Choose manual if you want maximum flexibility and the freedom to drive any car.

Choose automatic if you want a calmer, often quicker route to your licence, or you already know you will drive an automatic.

There is no wrong answer, it comes down to your goals and how you feel behind the wheel.

Still unsure? Tell us when you register and we will help you decide. Book a lesson or call 020 7474 9222.