Difference Between Manual and Automatic Driving Licenses
2 Answers
Holding a manual transmission license allows driving automatic transmission vehicles, whereas an automatic transmission license does not permit driving manual transmission vehicles. Below is a detailed introduction regarding manual and automatic transmission driving licenses: 1. Different permitted vehicle types: The permitted vehicle type for a manual transmission license is "small cars," while for an automatic transmission license, it is "small automatic transmission cars." 2. Different permitted vehicles: Manual transmission licenses permit "small and micro passenger cars, as well as light and micro trucks; light and micro special purpose vehicles." Automatic transmission licenses permit "small and micro automatic transmission passenger cars, as well as light and micro automatic transmission trucks." 3. Different additional permitted vehicle types: Holding a manual transmission license allows driving automatic transmission vehicles, whereas an automatic transmission license does not permit driving manual transmission vehicles.
When choosing between a manual or automatic transmission for a driver's license, the differences are quite significant. Based on my over ten years of driving experience, manual transmission requires learning to control the clutch and gear shifting. Starting and changing speeds need to be well-coordinated—releasing the clutch too quickly can stall the car, while too slowly won't get it moving. The test is stricter, with a lower pass rate, but it allows driving both manual and automatic cars. Manual transmissions are more fuel-efficient and offer flexible driving. Automatic transmissions eliminate the need to manage the clutch, focusing only on the accelerator and brake, making it easier for beginners to learn and pass the test. It's more suitable for city commuting, reducing foot fatigue in traffic jams. However, once you obtain an automatic-only license, you're restricted to driving automatic transmission vehicles.
