What is the difference between automatic and manual transmission for a driver's license?
2 Answers
The differences between automatic and manual transmission for a driver's license are as follows: 1. Different learning costs: The tuition for automatic transmission is generally higher than that for manual transmission, because the purchase cost, usage cost, and maintenance cost of automatic transmission vehicles are higher than those of manual transmission vehicles. 2. Different permitted vehicle types: A manual transmission (C1) license allows driving small and micro passenger cars, light and micro cargo trucks, light and micro special operation vehicles, and all vehicle types permitted by Class C driver's licenses. An automatic transmission (C2) license only permits driving small and micro automatic transmission passenger cars and light and micro automatic transmission cargo trucks. 3. Different test items: Starting from June 1, 2021, the 'hill start' item in the second subject test for small automatic transmission cars will be canceled, meaning the test items for automatic transmission cars in the second subject will be fewer than those for manual transmission cars.
When I first started learning to drive, I chose an automatic transmission, and it felt incredibly smooth. With a manual transmission, you have to press the clutch and shift gears, and if the timing is even slightly off, the car can stall easily, which adds a lot of pressure during the test. Automatic transmissions are completely different—you just need to press the brake and accelerator, simplifying the operation and making it much easier for beginners to learn. After just two or three practice sessions, you can take the test. Moreover, the pass rate for the driving test is higher with an automatic because there are fewer mechanical points of failure. In terms of cost, automatic transmission driving courses are generally shorter, saving a lot on tuition fees. In the long run, almost all new cars nowadays come with automatic transmissions, making this license more practical. While a manual transmission license allows you to drive both types of cars, it’s a waste if you never drive a manual. From a safety perspective, automatic transmissions reduce distractions, making it easier to focus on the road conditions.