If Manual Transmission is Difficult, Should I Take the Automatic Transmission Test?
3 Answers
If manual transmission is difficult, you can opt for the automatic transmission test. The operational difficulty differs between automatic and manual transmissions: Manual transmission primarily relies on the driver manually operating the clutch pedal to change gears; automatic transmission mainly depends on the hydraulic torque converter's hydraulic transmission principle to automatically shift gears. The safety aspects of automatic and manual transmissions also vary: Neutral gear in manual transmission vehicles causes a loss of power, posing potential safety hazards during driving; automatic transmission vehicles cannot use neutral gear while driving, making this method safer. Manual transmission involves manually shifting the gear lever to change the gear engagement inside the transmission, altering the gear ratio to achieve speed changes. Automatic transmission means the driver does not need to manually shift gears, as the vehicle automatically selects the appropriate gear based on driving speed and traffic conditions.
I kept failing the manual transmission driving test before, stumbling twice on hill starts and gear shifting. A friend suggested I try automatic transmission, and I found it much simpler. Automatic cars are easier to operate—no clutch control needed, just shift to D and go. During the test, it was easier to focus on road rules and safety. My practice time was reduced from two weeks to just one and a half weeks before I passed. Nowadays, 90% of cars on the road are automatic, so getting an automatic license is more than enough—saving money, effort, and time. With a fast-paced life, getting a license earlier makes commuting or traveling much more convenient.
I did the math: manual transmission tests have higher registration fees and require longer practice hours, with retakes costing extra. Switching to automatic transmission reduced the costs by 30-40%, and it only takes half the training hours to master. Driving an automatic is much easier—no need to worry about shifting gears—and the pass rate for tests is significantly higher. With the rise of new energy vehicles, automatics are becoming the mainstream, making them a more practical choice. The money and time saved can be better spent on buying a car or advancing your career. Switching is a smart move—don’t let pride cost you money.
