πŸš—Driving Lessons with Automatic Gearbox in Ireland

πŸš— Why Choose Automatic Driving Lessons?

Learning to drive a car with an automatic gearbox is becoming more and more popular in Ireland. Automatic vehicles are easier to operate, especially for beginners, people with physical difficulties, or those who feel overwhelmed by gear shifting. If you’re looking for a smoother and stress-free driving experience, automatic lessons are a perfect choice.

πŸ“ Where Can I Take Automatic Driving Lessons?

You can take automatic driving lessons in Dublin and many other towns in Ireland. At our school, we offer professional instruction with certified driving instructors (ADI) using modern automatic cars equipped with dual controls for maximum safety. We operate in areas including Finglas, Tallaght, Raheny, Naas, and more.

🧠 Less Stress, Higher Pass Rates

One of the biggest advantages of learning in an automatic car is the simplicity. You don’t have to worry about stalling the engine, changing gears, or mastering clutch control. Because of this, automatic learners often feel more relaxed during their test, which leads to a significantly higher pass rate compared to manual test takers.

⚠️ Are There Any Limitations?

Yes. When you pass your driving test in an automatic car, your full driving license will be marked with a code β€œ78”. This restriction means you’re only legally allowed to drive vehicles with automatic transmissions. You cannot drive a manual car unless you take additional lessons and pass the manual driving test.

This may not be an issue if your personal car is automatic. However, it could become a limitation if:

  • You are asked to drive a manual car in an emergency,

  • You apply for a job that requires manual driving skills (e.g. delivery, transport),

  • You want to rent a car abroad and only manual options are available.

🧾 What Can You Drive With a Category B Automatic Licence?

With a category B licence (automatic restriction), you are legally entitled to drive:

  • Vehicles with a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of up to 3,500 kg (excluding buses and motorcycles),

  • Vehicles equipped only with automatic transmissions,

  • Light trailers (up to 750 kg),

  • Mopeds and quads under the AM category.

You cannot drive vehicles with manual gearboxes unless you obtain a full B licence without restriction.

πŸ“… The Automatic Driving Course – What to Expect

Automatic driving lessons follow the same Essential Driver Training (EDT) programme as manual lessons. The course includes 12 structured lessons, each focusing on a core driving skill such as road position, observation, anticipation, and night driving.

What’s different is the car. Since there is no clutch pedal or gear lever, you will:

  • Focus more on road awareness,

  • Learn smoother acceleration and braking,

  • Avoid the stress of stalling or rolling back on hills,

  • Develop better confidence early in your lessons.

Your ADI instructor will log your progress and help prepare you for the driving test using RSA-approved routes and techniques.

πŸ§‘β€πŸ¦½ Who Should Choose Automatic Lessons?

Automatic lessons are ideal for:

  • Learners who feel nervous about manual gear changes,

  • People with medical conditions or mobility issues,

  • Mature learners starting driving later in life,

  • Those who plan to drive an automatic car permanently,

  • Learners who want to focus purely on safety, road rules, and driving habits.

πŸ§ͺ Is the Driving Test the Same?

Yes, the driving test itself is exactly the same. You will be assessed on:

  • Your ability to control the vehicle safely,

  • Observation, awareness, and hazard perception,

  • Positioning, signalling, and mirror use,

  • Proper reaction to road signs, roundabouts, and junctions,

  • Performing key manoeuvres such as reversing, hill starts, and turnabouts.

However, since you’re driving an automatic car, you won’t be evaluated on clutch control or gear usage.

🏁 After You Pass – What Next?

Once you pass your automatic driving test:

  • You’ll receive a Certificate of Competency valid for 2 years.

  • Apply for your full B licence with the β€œ78” automatic restriction.

  • Enjoy your new independence on the road!

If you ever want to upgrade to a manual licence in the future, you can take manual driving lessons and then book another test in a manual vehicle.

πŸ“ž Book Your Automatic Lessons Today!

Whether you’re a first-time learner or just switching from manual, automatic driving lessons are a great way to build your confidence and become a safe, skilled driver.

πŸ“† Contact us today to book your automatic driving course in Dublin or surrounding areas. Learn stress-free, drive safely, and pass with confidence!