For many people, learning to drive is one of the most important milestones in life. Whether it’s to gain your own independence on a day-to-day basis, a requirement for a new job, or you simply want the freedom to go out and explore the world, getting a driving licence really can open a lot of doors!
But, if you’re thinking about learning to drive, should you opt to take your lessons in an automatic or a manual car? What are the pros and cons of both, and what should you take into consideration before deciding which is right for you?
In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about learning to drive an automatic car. From how automatic gearboxes work and how to operate one, through to the different types of automatic transmissions, use-case scenarios, and the key benefits to help you make an informed decision about whether it’s the way to go on your learn-to-drive journey.
How Automatic Cars Work
Automatic cars are designed to simplify the driving experience. Instead of using a clutch pedal and manually shifting gears, automatic vehicles handle gear changes for you.
Most automatic cars have four main gear selections:
- P (Park) – Locks the transmission and prevents the car from moving.
- R (Reverse) – Moves the car backwards.
- N (Neutral) – Disengages the gearbox from the engine, like putting a manual in neutral.
- D (Drive) – Engages forward motion and shifts through gears automatically as you accelerate or decelerate.
You’ll also typically see options like S (Sport) or L (Low), depending on the vehicle. These offer more control in certain driving conditions, which we’ll cover further on.
What is the difference between automatic and manual cars?
For someone to understand what sort of driving lessons they’d like to take part in, it makes sense to touch upon the technical difference between manual and automatic cars. For now, let’s define it simply:
Manual Cars:Â This means cars that are built with a manual transmission, which requires the driver to manually change to a higher or lower gear using the clutch pedal and gear lever.
Automatic Cars:Â These cars are built with an automatic gearbox, which will automatically change gears as the driver accelerates and decelerates without the need for a manual gearbox.
How to Operate an Automatic Car
While automatic cars are often seen as easier to drive, it’s still important to understand how they function in everyday situations. From starting the car to bringing it safely to a stop, the steps differ from what you might expect if you’re used to manuals. Below, we break down the core actions you’ll need to understand when driving an automatic car for the first time.
How to Start an Automatic Car
- Sit in the driver’s seat and buckle up.
- Press down on the brake pedal (left of the two pedals).
- Insert the key or press the start button.
- While holding the brake, move the gear selector from P (Park) to D (Drive) or R (Reverse).
- Release the handbrake.
- Gently lift your foot off the brake – the car will begin to creep forward or backwards.
- Use the accelerator to increase speed smoothly.
How to Stop an Automatic Car
- Gently ease off the accelerator.
- Press the brake pedal to slow down.
- Once stopped, keep your foot on the brake and shift to P (Park).
- Apply the handbrake.
- Turn off the engine.
Types of Automatic Gearboxes
Not all automatic cars use the same kind of transmission. In fact, there are several types of automatic gearboxes, each with its own technology, feel, and fuel efficiency. Understanding the differences can help you choose the right vehicle or simply make you a more informed driver as automatics become increasingly common, especially with the rise of electric vehicles. Below, we talk you through the different types of automatic gearboxes.
Conventional Automatic (Torque Converter)
- Uses hydraulic fluid and a torque converter to transmit power.
- Known for smooth shifts but often less fuel-efficient than other types.
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
- Uses a belt and pulley system rather than traditional gears.
- Found in hybrids like the Toyota Prius.
- Offers smooth acceleration but can sound louder under heavy acceleration.
Dual-Clutch Automatic
- Uses two clutches for quicker and smoother gear changes.
- Often found in performance or sporty models (e.g. Volkswagen DSG).
- Combines the efficiency of manual with the ease of automatic.
Automated Manual Gearbox
- Functions like a manual but uses computerised gear shifting.
- Generally cheaper to build and found in budget models.
- Can feel slightly jerky compared to other types.
The benefits of learning to drive in an automatic car
Driving an automatic car is a different experience from driving a manual car, and there’s no right answer as to which one people should choose. It’s all about personal preference. Below, we’ll talk through some of the reasons people choose to make
the change to automatic.
Ease of use for nervous drivers
The ease of use comes because of the lack of a gear stick and a clutch pedal. In theory, a nervous driver has less to focus on in an automatic car, meaning it can help take the pressure off, making it more likely to be able to learn to drive and pass their driving test.
Easier than learning to drive a manual
If you know you’re only ever going to drive an automatic car, if you drive an electric car, for example, learning to drive in an automatic car may be easier than having to get a full manual license. There’s no need to learn clutch control, which people can struggle with when starting out.
A smooth driving experience
Automatic cars can provide a smoother ride for everyone inside the car, as the chances of stalling and jerky gear changes are taken away. If you plan on driving other people around often or doing lots of journeys on inner city roads where the traffic can be very stop-start, the smooth gear changes of an automatic might make the whole experience far more enjoyable.
Physical inclusivity
Automatic cars are often a preferred choice for people with physical disabilities or certain medical conditions that may restrict their ability to move within the car. Learning in an automatic car provides an accessible pathway to driving for these individuals, enabling more control over their vehicle and a more pleasurable experience.
Are there any downsides to learning to drive an automatic?
Like we said before, choosing between an automatic and manual car is hugely down to preference. But it’s always good to know exactly what you’re signing up for whenever you’re making the choice.
Higher car cost
In today’s market, automatic cars are often more expensive than manual cars. The mechanical complexity of automatic transmission systems and technology contributes to this higher price. So, once you’ve learnt to drive in an automatic, expect to pay more for your first car.
As well, since automatic cars tend to have higher market values than manuals, they are more expensive to insure (about 20% more on average, according to Money Expert). Before you commit to learning how to drive in an automatic car, consider whether or not you are prepared to take on these additional costs.
Maintenance and repair costs
Automatic vehicle maintenance is typically more expensive than manual maintenance since the inner workings of automatic gearboxes are more complex. For both the parts and the labour that are needed for routine servicing or repairs, expect to pay more if you drive an automatic car.
Less driver engagement
Driving enthusiasts may find that driving an automatic car lacks the level of immersion and involvement that manual driving gives. Manual vehicles require drivers to take a far more active role when sitting behind the wheel, which, in some cases, can make it easier to stay alert and focused on the road ahead.
Future driving limitation
Learning to drive in an automatic and passing your test this way only earns you an automatic licence. If a situation arises where only a manual transmission vehicle is available, an individual who has exclusively driven automatic cars won’t be legally allowed to drive it until they’ve upgraded to a manual driving licence. Whereas with a manual licence, you can drive both transmission types from the get-go.
Use Cases for Learning to Drive in an Automatic Car
Adverse Weather Driving
In snow or ice, automatic cars (especially those with winter modes) help manage torque more efficiently and reduce wheelspin.
Hill Starts
Without a clutch, hill starts are more manageable — no rolling backwards or stalling while trying to find the biting point.
Stop-Start Traffic
In heavy traffic, automatics eliminate the constant need to change gears or operate the clutch, reducing fatigue and making urban driving easier.
FAQs
Do You Pass Quicker in an Automatic Car?
Even though you might think that it would take less time to pass your driving test when learning in an automatic car, DVSA pass rate data suggests that this isn’t actually the case. According to the latest gov.uk driving test and theory test data, the 2023/24 UK automatic pass rate was 42.8%, whilst the 2024/25 manual pass rate was 48.5%.
How many lessons does it take to learn to drive an automatic car?
The average number of lessons it takes UK learner drivers to pass their automatic driving test is 40. This is based on each lesson being 1 hour long. Regardless of whether you learn to drive in a manual or automatic vehicle, though, the important thing to remember is that everyone learns at a different pace! Some people take to driving far quicker than others and, as such, will need fewer lessons before they feel confident and competent enough to book their test.
Can I Drive a Manual Car with an Automatic Licence?
No. An automatic licence only allows you to drive automatic vehicles. To drive a manual, you’d need to pass a separate test.
Is It Cheaper to Learn in an Automatic Car?
It depends. Although lessons may be shorter overall, hourly rates are often higher. Plus, automatic cars tend to cost more to run and insure.
Conclusion: When Should You Learn to Drive in an Automatic Car?
Learning in an automatic car makes sense if you:
- Want a simpler driving experience
- Plan to drive electric vehicles
- Struggle with clutch control
- Have mobility restrictions
Just be mindful of the long-term limitations, like not being licensed to drive a manual. But for many, automatic driving is the perfect path to freedom on the road.
Learn to drive with Bill Plant Driving School
Here at Bill Plant Driving School, we offer a selection of different lesson structures to suit anyone. You can get in touch with one of our team members to find out more about automatic driving lessons.