Learning to drive an automatic car has become a popular choice in the UK. With more drivers choosing the simplicity of automatic transmission and the increase in electric vehicles (which are almost always automatic), the question arises: how many driving lessons do you actually need to pass the automatic driving test in the UK? Taking automatic driving lessons can help you gain confidence and prepare effectively for test day.
This article breaks down the factors involved and offers insight into how many lessons you might need to feel confident and prepared for test day.
1. Average Number of Lessons for Automatic Driving
Generally, learners preparing for an automatic driving test require fewer lessons compared to those learning in a manual vehicle. This is mainly because automatic cars are easier to handle, as you don’t need to worry about gear changes or clutch control.
The UK’s Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) estimates that it takes an average learner around 45 hours of lessons and 22 hours of private practice to be test-ready. However, automatic learners typically need fewer lessons due to the reduced complexity, often between 25 and 35 hours of professional instruction, depending on individual progress.
2. Factors Influencing the Number of Lessons Required
- Learning Style
Every learner is different. Some people pick up driving quickly, while others take more time to feel comfortable on the road. Your learning style and ability to retain new information can significantly affect how many lessons you’ll need.
- Previous Driving Experience
If you have some experience driving, even in a manual car, this may reduce the number of lessons required. Familiarity with road signs, rules, and general driving principles can help you adapt to automatic driving more efficiently.
- Frequency of Lessons
Regular practice is key to building and retaining driving skills. Booking more than one lesson a week can accelerate progress, reducing the total number of lessons needed. For some learners, intensive driving courses, which condense lessons into a shorter period can be highly effective.
- Confidence and Nerves
Anxiety and nerves can delay your progress. Taking additional lessons for the sole purpose of boosting confidence can make a big difference in ensuring you are calm and collected on test day.
3. Advantages of Learning in an Automatic Car
Learning in an automatic car comes with some clear advantages:
- Simplified Controls: Without the need to master clutch and gear changes, you can focus on developing awareness of the road and handling the car.
- Quicker to Pick Up: Less time is spent on the mechanics of driving, meaning you can reach a test-ready level faster.
- Great for City Driving: Automatic cars are wellsuited for stop-start city driving, which often forms part of the driving test route.
4. Tips to Pass the Automatic Driving Test Sooner
- Practice Regularly: As much as possible, practice with a family member or friend to get comfortable on the road and make the most of each lesson.
- Take Mock Tests: Mock tests simulate the real test environment, which can be beneficial for gauging your readiness and tackling any last-minute nerves.
- Stay Focused on the Key Skills: Focus on developing skills that are assessed during the test such as parking, reversing, junctions, and emergency stops.
- Consider an Intensive Course: Intensive courses can be ideal for learners who want to condense learning into a shorter period. They require a time commitment but are often successful in helping learners pass faster.
5. Passing Your Automatic Driving Test: What to Expect
On test day, you will be assessed on your ability to control the car and navigate various road situations safely. The examiner will expect you to demonstrate that you can drive independently, make safe decisions, and handle challenging situations.
The key areas the examiner will assess include:
- Clutch and Gear-Free Car Control: In an automatic car, you’ll only have to focus on steering, braking, and acceleration.
- Hazard Perception and Awareness: Keeping a lookout for pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users.
- Parking and Manoeuvres: These include parallel parking, reversing into a bay, and possibly a turn-in-the-road.
After the test, your examiner will give you feedback on areas that went well and any areas that need improvement.
Final Thoughts: How Many Lessons Will You Need?
In summary, the exact number of driving lessons you’ll need to pass an automatic driving test depends on multiple factors, from your learning speed to how frequently you can practice outside of lessons. Most learners require 25 to 35 hours of instruction for an automatic car, but with consistent practice and focus, you may need fewer.
Starting with a goal of around 30 hours of lessons and adjusting based on your progress is a sensible approach. Remember, the goal is not just to pass the test but to become a confident, safe driver.