Why do driving schools have students learn manual transmission?

[StVivian]

Driving schools have students learn manual transmission because the C1 driver's license has a wider range of applications. The C1 license allows driving both automatic and manual transmission vehicles, whereas the C2 license only permits driving automatic transmission vehicles and excludes manual transmission. Therefore, most driving schools recommend learning C1 manual transmission. Additional information: The main differences between C1 and C2 driver's licenses are: 1. The C1 license covers a broader range of vehicle types (including C2, C3, and C4), allowing the operation of small and micro passenger cars, light and micro cargo vehicles, and light, small, and micro special-purpose vehicles; 2. The C2 license only permits driving automatic transmission vehicles with no more than 9 seats and a length not exceeding 6 meters.

[VonElle]

What puzzled me most when learning to drive was why we had to learn manual transmission, but later I realized it's the core of fundamental driving skills. Mastering manual teaches you true vehicle control—like clutch coordination and gear-shifting timing—things simplified in automatics. With this foundation, handling automatic cars becomes effortless while sharpening sensitivity to speed and safe distances. Driving schools use affordable manual cars for instruction, lowering costs and making tuition more accessible. Earning a C1 license post-training allows driving any vehicle type—automatic-only licenses restrict you to such cars. Personally, I advise against taking the easy route with automatics; manual training cultivates patience, focus, and reduces rookie errors. Long-term, it's a highly efficient investment.

[Damien]

Since childhood, I've been curious about driving. Initially, learning manual transmission seemed troublesome, but my instructor explained that it's the best way to fully master driving. It requires you to manually operate the clutch and shift gears, understand engine response, and improve reaction speed. After learning this way, your driver's license has strong versatility, allowing you to drive all types of vehicles. Driving schools choose manual transmission because it's low-cost, easy to maintain, and highly efficient for teaching. Although the learning process is a bit challenging, it helps develop good habits, such as economical driving and safety awareness. Many people only see the convenience of automatic transmission and miss these crucial skills, making them overly reliant on systems when driving later. Learning manual transmission has no downsides; it builds a solid foundation, making you more confident and flexible behind the wheel.

[DeGiselle]

After teaching driving for so many years, manual transmission instruction remains the gold standard in driving schools. Manual cars are cheaper and more durable, making them ideal for batch teaching. Students learning manual transmission can solidly master clutch operation and gear-shifting techniques, which are the essence of driving. After passing the test, a C1 license covers a wide range, allowing you to drive automatic cars freely. In contrast, automatic transmission instruction offers limited learning and higher dependency. Manual transmission training cultivates focused attention and reduces risks like stalling. There's no substitute for learning the basics, and manual transmission is the simple and efficient first choice for beginners.

[ChristopherAnn]

I always love saving money and hassle, and driving schools teaching manual transmission is incredibly practical. Manual cars are significantly cheaper than automatics, and driving schools have lower operating costs, making tuition more affordable. After learning, obtaining a C1 license allows you to drive all types of vehicles, with no restrictions on automatic or manual transmissions. In the long run, it’s hassle-free and economical—manual cars are simpler to maintain and have a longer lifespan. Although the learning process can be a bit challenging, it builds a solid foundation for safer and more reliable driving. Many people skip manual because it seems tiring, but they end up with fewer vehicle choices and higher costs by only driving automatics. Learning manual is a smart investment—mastering full driving skills is something you won’t regret.