Obtaining a driving license for an automatic vehicle: potential impacts detailed
In the ever-evolving world of automobiles, the debate about automatic versus manual driving licenses has gained significant traction, particularly in light of the electrification of the automotive fleet and the surge in sales of hybrid and electric SUVs, all of which are automatics.
If you're planning to drive in Spain, passing the practical driving exam with an automatic car will earn you a license with the restriction code 78, limiting you to automatic cars only. Conversely, if you wish to drive a manual car in Spain, you'll need to retake the practical exam with a gear-shift car.
The same rule applies in much of Europe, where a license obtained with an automatic is limited to automatics only, reducing your flexibility as a driver. However, in contrast, countries like Mexico, Argentina, and Chile allow you to take the exam with an automatic without subsequent restrictions.
In Germany, the practical driving test with an automatic transmission vehicle grants a license without restrictions for manual vehicles, but only after completing ten driving lessons on a manual car and providing a certificate from the driving school.
The United Kingdom and the European Union follow a similar system, with EU licenses being valid in all member states, but only for automatic cars. The United States, on the other hand, allows you to drive manual cars without restrictions, even if you pass with an automatic.
Learning with an automatic car can be faster and less stressful due to the absence of a clutch and gear changes. However, choosing to take the driving exam with an automatic car can have consequences for your license and your freedom as a driver. For instance, if you ever need to use a manual car, whether for a replacement vehicle, economical rental car abroad, or work car, you won't be able to do so legally with a Spanish license obtained with an automatic.
Driving school experts agree that more and more students are opting to learn directly with an automatic, convinced that the future of driving lies in eliminating gears and clutch. However, in Spain, it's recommended to take several adaptation lessons before the exam to get used to the clutch and avoid surprises.
If you're clear that you'll only be driving automatic or electric vehicles, getting your license with one of them is a logical, quick, and future-focused option. But for those seeking versatility, complete freedom, and the security of being able to drive any car they borrow, rent, or need to use, it's still most recommended to take your test with a manual.
Regulations regarding automatic licenses vary by country, but the general trend is becoming more relevant due to the increasing sale of hybrid and electric SUVs (all automatics). As we move towards a more electric future, the debate about manual versus automatic licenses will continue to evolve.
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