Learning to drive can be stressful, and often students believe it is better to get it over and done with as soon as possible. Whether your car is manual or automatic, each comes with its own advantages and disadvantages. Choosing between learning to drive in a manual or automatic vehicle depends on several factors. Here are some key points to consider:

Learning in a Manual Vehicle

1. Greater Control: Manual cars allow for more control over gear selection and engine power, which can be beneficial in certain driving conditions.
2. Broader Driving Skills: Learning in a manual vehicle may give you a more comprehensive understanding of driving mechanics and skills, which can be advantageous for advanced driving situations.
3. Cost: Manual vehicles tend to be less expensive to purchase and maintain compared to automatics. Insurance rates may also be lower.
4. Driving Flexibility: If you learn in a manual, you’ll be qualified to drive both manual and automatic cars, giving you more options in the future.

Learning in an Automatic Vehicle

1. Easier to Drive: Automatics are generally easier to operate, as they don’t require you to shift gears manually. This can reduce the learning curve, especially for beginners or those who may be anxious about driving.
2. Focus on Road Awareness: Learning in an automatic allows you to concentrate more on road signs, traffic, and other important aspects of driving rather than shifting gears.
3. Less Physical Strain: For some learners, especially those with mobility issues, driving an automatic can be more comfortable and less tiring.
4. Increased Popularity: Many newer cars are automatic, making it a practical choice for many learners.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preferences, driving goals, and comfort level. If you plan to drive a variety of vehicles or are interested in performance driving, a manual might be the better option. However, if you prioritize ease of use and want to build confidence quickly, learning in an automatic vehicle may be the way to go.

Consider your lifestyle and future driving needs when making your decision, however, you should know that it is not necessarily quicker to pass in an automatic and this is because the same skills have to be taught. The most difficult skill that the driver has to master are taught skills of awareness and perception – the ability to see and understand what is going on and make informed decisions based on that. Using the gears is only a small element.

Our driving instructors have techniques that make learning gears a very simple exercise. .We always recommend trying manual before opting for automatic.

One deciding factor is that if you pass your test in a manual, you can also drive an automatic. But if you pass your test in an automatic, you’ll only be able to drive an automatic. If you decide you want to drive a manual, later on, you’ll have to re-sit your driving test in a manual car. Also, getting hold of an automatic car for example if you need to hire a car can be more difficult Automatics aren’t always readily available. ,

Many learner drivers feel more comfortable learning with a female instructor, especially other females, we also have male pupils who prefer female driving instructors. Why? Some are for religious reasons whilst, some have had a bad experience with a male instructor whilst others say because they believe a woman will be more patient. Its worth knowing that many male driving instructors possess the same traits and they are not specific to only female driving instructors!

Male instructors are just as popular, we find that some will not go with a female. They feel that male Driving instructors get straight to the point when teaching, therefore, they think they will learn more and pass their driving test quicker. This again is not a trait only male driving instructors have female driving instructors have this too. 

Other reason for choosing a male or female driving instructor

Cultural and religious reasons also play a part when choosing a male or female driving instructor. In some religions and cultures, females can’t be alone with a male and this applies to males too, they have to choose a male driving instructor. Some women for personal reasons may feel uncomfortable around men, or in particular, in close proximity to men – which of course you will be when learning to drive, for this reason, you will feel more comfortable and it would be better choice.

Knowing this will help you determine how many hours a week you need to take in order to meet your target. It is good to know that if you do 2 hours a week you could be ready to take your driving test in 6 months. Obviously, 2hours a week which most students take will have you ready in 3 months.

Driving lessons can feel like a big expense, and that’s largely because driving is often seen as a luxury rather than a necessity. To make the process smoother, it’s wise to plan ahead by incorporating lessons into your budget or setting aside funds in advance.

In the UK, lesson prices currently average around £35 per hour, though they can vary by cities and how experienced the instructor is —highly sought-after instructors charge up to £50 per hour in manual vehicles and more in automatic. Recent increases in prices stem from factors like inflation and rising fuel costs, which impact instructors’ overheads. Consider, too, how this compares to other professional services: electricians and plumbers, who often have fewer operating expenses can charge over £50 just for a call out!

Interestingly, in 2000, lesson prices averaged around £20 per hour, so the rate of increase has been relatively modest over the years.

Savings can be made by asking the instructor if you can pay for a block of 10 lessons upfront

Commitment is Key

Starting and stopping driving lessons can end up costing more in the long run. If you pause halfway through, you’ll likely need to spend extra time and money revisiting previously learned skills before moving forward. To make the most of your investment, it’s best to ensure you’re financially prepared to see the lessons through to the end. Proper planning will help you achieve your goal of becoming a confident, qualified driver efficiently and cost-effectively!

Driving instructors aim to secure a regular appointment in their schedule for your lessons. It’s beneficial to choose a consistent day and time that you can commit to each week. This consistency helps reinforce your learning and progress.

If, for any reason, you are unable to attend a scheduled lesson, you will generally need to book a new appointment during a cancellation slot. Keeping a regular schedule not only supports your learning but also maximizes the availability of lessons with your instructor.

Many students are so eager to start driving that they often overlook the ongoing costs of car ownership! In the UK, car owners spend over £3,000 per year just to keep their vehicles running. Here’s a breakdown of the key expenses:

1. Fuel Costs: With recent price increases, petrol or diesel can cost an estimated £1,435 per year, depending on usage.
2. Insurance: For new drivers, motor insurance is often one of the highest expenses, averaging around £2,000 per year.
3. Repairs & Servicing: Routine servicing, minor repairs, and unexpected breakdowns can add up to around £2,500 annually.

Alongside the initial purchase price, these costs add up quickly, so it’s essential to be financially prepared. Passing your driving test is only the beginning—this is when real learning starts, and you develop your own driving style. Being able to consistently drive and gain experience will help solidify your skills and build confidence. So, make sure you’re ready to support the full journey of car ownership!

Many passed pupils are returning for refresher, parking, and motorway lessons simply because they could not afford a car once they passed and have not driven in several months.

Identify Your Needs: We consider what’s most important to you—you will definitely be taught by a driving instructor with over 20 years of experience in teaching new drivers, we then discuss your choice of vehicle and your reasons – learning to driving in manual or automatic vehicle is a big decision and lastly along with your general availability we find out how you are feeling about the prospect of driving in general and whether you have any specific learning needs.

Check Qualifications and Experience: Look for fully qualified instructors with a proven track record. In the UK, driving instructors must display an ADI (Approved Driving Instructor) badge. Experience matters, so don’t hesitate to ask how long they’ve been teaching and if they’re familiar with the local area.

Consider Their Teaching Style: Everyone learns differently, so it’s important to find an instructor whose teaching style matches your learning style. Some instructors are more relaxed, while others are structured and goal-focused—choose one that helps you feel comfortable and motivated.

Once you have booked your first lesson you may be asked for an advance holding payment, in case you decide to leave, provided there are no outstanding payments related to late cancellations of driving lessons this holding payment will be repaid to you.

On the day of your lesson, your driving instructor will arrive on time at the confirmed pickup point, and your lesson will begin. Don’t hesitate to ask plenty of questions throughout the session—engagement is key to your learning process!

At the end of the lesson, your instructor will review what you’ve covered and learned. They’ll also discuss the topics and skills that will be addressed in your next lesson, helping you stay informed and prepared for your ongoing progress. This structured approach ensures that you build on your skills effectively as you work toward passing your Driving Test.

The Driving Instructor will then arrive at your pick u point (generally your home ) to conduct the Driving Lesson. Please remember that all Driving Instructors are self-employed and some use their own business name . Therefore the roof sign may not be Laugh ‘n’ Pass or 1st Drive Forward. read more about the instructors

Before starting your driving lessons, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions of your chosen driving instructor. During your first lesson, don’t hesitate to ask to see their terms, as you are entering into a personal contract with them.

If you need to cancel a driving lesson, please give at least 48 hours’ notice to avoid cancellation charges. Late cancellations typically incur a fee equivalent to the full cost of the missed lesson, which can add up quickly. While driving instructors strive to be flexible, providing sufficient notice allows them to offer the slot to another student, ensuring they are not financially impacted. Being aware of these guidelines will help you manage your lessons smoothly and effectively.