Can a Manual Transmission License Test Be Switched to an Automatic Transmission Test?

[StKeegan]

Manual transmission can be switched to automatic transmission for the test. Switching from manual to automatic transmission test: If you fail the Subject 2 test, switching to an automatic transmission is allowed as it is considered a downgrade in the driver's license test. The passed Subject 1 results remain valid, but switching to automatic transmission still requires some procedures. Differences between manual and automatic transmission in Subject 2: Manual transmission vehicles have a clutch, so learning to control the clutch is essential during practice. In terms of test items, manual transmission tests include reverse parking, right-angle turns, parallel parking, curve driving, and hill starts. Automatic transmission tests omit the hill start because there is no clutch, making this item less critical. The judgment of side and marking lines can be assessed in the Subject 3 test.

[DeBrynlee]

I also went through the manual transmission test and later wanted to switch to automatic, only to find out it wasn't a direct swap. According to regulations, you first need to cancel your manual transmission registration at the DMV and then reapply for an automatic transmission qualification. This means all previously passed subject one results become invalid, and you have to pay the registration fee again. At the time, I thought automatic would be easier, so I didn't hesitate to go through the process. After re-registering, I found that automatic transmission is indeed more hassle-free—no need to worry about the clutch or shifting gears, and the test went much smoother. However, it cost me over two thousand yuan more and delayed me by more than a month. If you've just finished subject one, you can still cut your losses in time. But if you're halfway through subject two, it might be better to grit your teeth and stick with it, since a manual transmission license has a broader range of applications.

[Alexis]

In our driver training industry, inquiries about switching from manual to automatic transmission are quite common. In fact, the examination system does not allow changing categories midway; one must follow the cancellation and re-registration process. This means abandoning the current progress and starting over from Subject One to Subject Three, with the need to pay the examination fees again. The automatic transmission test content is simpler, such as not needing to control the clutch during hill starts and not requiring gear shifting for reverse parking, which indeed results in a higher pass rate. However, I advise students to consider carefully before enrollment: if they don’t plan to drive manual transmission cars in the future, choosing automatic transmission directly is the most straightforward option. If a switch is necessary, it’s best to decide before the Subject Three road test to minimize time and financial losses.

[PaigeFitz]

Last year when I wanted to switch from manual to automatic transmission, I specifically researched the policies. The regulations at local DMVs are basically consistent: you cannot take the test across categories. If you want to switch, you have to go through the withdrawal and re-registration process. Previously completed driving practice hours do not accumulate, and paid fees are non-refundable. I only decided to switch after failing the subject 2 test twice, and calculated that it was more cost-effective than retaking. The biggest advantage of the automatic transmission test is the simplified clutch control, especially during urban road tests where frequent starts and stops won't lead to stalling. However, after passing, I discovered an issue: an automatic transmission license doesn't allow driving manual transmission vehicles, which might limit future self-drive car rentals for road trips. I suggest young people carefully consider their long-term needs before registration.