Can I switch to automatic transmission after passing the manual transmission driving test (Subject 3)?
3 Answers
Some regions explicitly stipulate that after passing Subject 2, switching from manual to automatic transmission is not allowed. However, in some areas, it is possible to switch from manual to automatic transmission after Subject 3. You should consult your driving school for specific details. Below is relevant information about Subject 3: 1. Introduction to Subject 3: Subject 3, which includes the road driving skills test and the safety and civilized driving knowledge test, is part of the motor vehicle driver's license examination. It is the abbreviation for the road driving skills and safety and civilized driving knowledge test in the motor vehicle driver's examination. The content of the road driving skills test varies depending on the type of vehicle being licensed. 2. Test content of Subject 3: The driving skills test includes preparation before starting, simulated lighting test, starting, driving in a straight line, shifting gears, changing lanes, pulling over, driving straight through intersections, etc.
I recently passed the manual transmission Subject 3 exam, so I totally get your perspective. Actually, you can't directly switch to automatic transmission after passing Subject 3—it's like trying to change pots halfway through cooking rice. My instructor told me that once you pass Subject 3, you're locked into the C1 license path. To switch to a C2 automatic transmission license, you'd need to re-register and take Subject 2 again, since automatic transmission tests don't include gear-shifting maneuvers—you might even have to restart from Subject 1. It seems a bit cumbersome, so I'd suggest sticking it out to complete Subject 4 and get your C1 license, which covers both manual and automatic vehicles—way more practical. Driving an automatic later will be a breeze, no pressure at all. Learning manual is tougher, but it gives you better speed control in city traffic—safety first. If it's really too difficult, check with the DMV about specific procedures, as local regulations may vary. Just don't let it delay your licensing timeline.
As a driving instructor who has trained countless students, I often encounter this issue. After passing the manual transmission (C1) driving test for Subject 3, it's generally not possible to directly switch to automatic transmission (C2). The C1 route is already set. To change to C2, you usually have to withdraw your application and retake Subject 2, because the automatic transmission test omits the clutch operation part, making the content different. I advise students to choose their preferred type when enrolling—manual transmission is more challenging but allows driving all vehicle types, while automatic transmission is easier to learn but limited to automatic vehicles. Nowadays, automatic transmission is the mainstream, but learning manual first makes switching to automatic easier and driving more stable. Avoid changing midway; verify policies with the driving school or vehicle management office to prevent wasted effort and delays in obtaining your license.
