Can a Manual Transmission License Be Switched to an Automatic Transmission License?
3 Answers
It is possible to switch from a manual transmission license to an automatic transmission license. The exams for both manual and automatic transmission licenses—subject one, subject two, subject three, and subject four—follow the exact same process and test items. The only difference lies in the vehicles used during the subject two and subject three exams: one is an automatic transmission vehicle, and the other is a manual transmission vehicle. Below are the differences between manual and automatic transmissions: 1. Difficulty of operation: Automatic transmissions do not require the driver to press the clutch or shift gears frequently, making operation more convenient. Manual transmissions require the driver to press the clutch to shift gears, which demands stricter driving skills. 2. Principle: Automatic transmissions use a computer to control hydraulic oil to push pistons for gear shifting based on throttle size, speed, and throttle opening. Manual transmissions add a manually adjustable shifting device to the original 100 automatic transmission, allowing the driver to use this device for gear shifting. 3. Operation method: Automatic transmissions do not require the driver to shift gears manually; the vehicle automatically selects the appropriate gear based on speed and road conditions. Manual transmissions can only shift gears through manual operation by the driver.
Previously, when I wanted to switch from a manual to an automatic transmission during my driver's license test, it basically meant starting over. The manual transmission test includes challenging aspects like clutch operation, which are completely unnecessary for automatic transmission vehicles. The driving school staff mentioned that if you apply to switch before completing Subject Two, you'd have to pay an additional training fee of around 800 yuan for the automatic transmission, and all the manual transmission practice hours would be void. However, the theoretical score from Subject One can be retained, and you'd only need to retake Subjects Two and Three. It's advisable to switch early if you find operating the clutch too burdensome, as it saves both time and effort.
As someone who just passed the automatic transmission driver's license test, I understand the switch from manual to automatic. My friend failed the manual transmission test three times before switching to automatic and completely gave up on manual by reapplying. Because the test vehicles are completely different, the electronic examiner system for automatic transmission doesn't include items like hill starts, shortening the entire learning cycle by about two weeks. However, it's important to note the driving restrictions later—an automatic license only allows you to drive automatic cars, making it less versatile than a manual license.
