Are the Written Test Questions for Manual and Automatic Transmission the Same?

[DeJuliette]

The written test (Subject 1) for manual transmission and automatic transmission driver's licenses covers the same knowledge points. However, the questions each candidate receives are randomly selected, so they may not be identical. The total duration of the Subject 1 test is 45 minutes. The exam consists of 100 questions, including true/false and multiple-choice questions, with a perfect score of 100 and a passing mark of 90. The test papers are randomly generated by the computer-based driver examination system according to the proportion specified in the "Motor Vehicle Driver's License Work Regulations". The Subject 1 examination process is as follows: First, follow the staff's instructions to collect your driving training file in order at the waiting area. Present your ID card for verification by the supervising officer. Note that you must turn off your mobile phone when entering the examination area, no loud noises are allowed, and law textbooks must not be brought into the examination room (or should be kept in your bag). After the test, keep your ID card safe and submit the file to the "Document Submission Window" at the front of the examination room. Candidates who pass the test will sign under the guidance of the staff at the exit before leaving. Those who fail can leave immediately and wait for their driving school to notify them of the retake schedule.

[EverlyRose]

I had the same question when I first started learning to drive, but I confirmed after taking the test myself that the questions for Subject 1 are exactly the same. Whether it's for manual or automatic transmission, you have to learn the same content. It mainly covers traffic rules, safe driving knowledge, and road signals—these theoretical parts share the exact same question bank. I remember my driving instructor saying this is because all drivers need to understand basic regulations, regardless of operational details. However, things start to differ from Subject 2 (closed-course test) and Subject 3 (road test). Manual transmission requires more practice with clutch control and gear-shifting techniques, which made me feel that the theoretical stage was stress-free and actually good. Before the exam, just practice more on driving test apps—they cover fines, speed limits, and accident handling. As long as you memorize carefully, the pass rate is high. Don’t worry about transmission types affecting Subject 1—it’s just the basic knowledge checkpoint.

[VonRuby]

As a seasoned driver with seven or eight years of experience, I can say there's no difference in the Subject 1 exam. Whether you're learning manual or automatic transmission, the questions cover traffic light rules, parking signs, safe distances, and more. My test experience proves that driving school materials are standardized—mastering the regulations is key. The real differences emerge in Subjects 2 and 3, where manual transmission tests are tougher, but Subject 1 serves as a fair foundational step. Back when I was a beginner, I practiced over a thousand questions and found the knowledge highly practical—it applies to all vehicles. Now when driving, I appreciate how Subject 1 emphasized safety as the top priority, while gear specifics could be learned later.

[DiDerek]

Having taught many students, I can confirm that the content of the Subject 1 test is exactly the same, regardless of manual or automatic transmission. The questions cover a wide range, from signal recognition to highway speed limit rules, all based on traffic laws. The test is in multiple-choice format with a consistent question bank, and passing relies solely on theoretical memorization. Practical operation issues are addressed in Subjects 2 and 3, where manual transmission tests focus more on clutch techniques. Therefore, I advise students to concentrate on reviewing the materials and not to worry about transmission types; mastering basic safety knowledge is beneficial for all types of driving and can also help prevent accident risks.