Automatic or Manual?
75% of new cars sold in Ireland are automatic. Here is how to decide.
Side by Side
| Automatic | Manual | |
|---|---|---|
| Clutch control | None needed | Required |
| Gears | Automatic | You shift manually |
| Avg hours to test-ready | ~22 | ~28 |
| Stalling risk | None | Common for beginners |
| Price per lesson | €54.94 | €53.27 |
| New car compatibility | 75% | 25% |
| Licence restriction | Code 78 (auto only) | None |
of new cars registered in Ireland in 2025 were automatic.
Source: SIMI (Society of the Irish Motor Industry)
What Code 78 Actually Means
The short version
Pass your driving test in an automatic and your NDLS licence gets a Code 78 stamp. It means you can only legally drive automatic cars. It is printed right on your full Category B licence.
Does it matter?
For most people, no. Three out of four new cars sold in Ireland are already automatic. Every electric vehicle is automatic. Every hybrid is automatic. The share of manual-only cars on Irish roads drops every year. If you plan to drive a modern car, Code 78 will not limit you.
How to remove it
Sit the driving test again in a manual car. That is it. You do not need extra lessons. Just book a manual test through the NDLS, pass it, and the restriction comes off your licence. You can do this at any time after you get your full licence.
Which Is Right for You?
Choose automatic if...
- ✓ You want to focus on the road, not the gears
- ✓ You feel nervous about learning to drive
- ✓ You plan to drive a hybrid or electric vehicle
- ✓ You want to reach test standard in fewer hours
- ✓ You hate the idea of stalling at junctions
Choose manual if...
- ✓ You want maximum flexibility with any car
- ✓ Your job requires a full (unrestricted) licence
- ✓ You want to drive older cars or classic vehicles
- ✓ You plan to rent cars abroad cheaply
- ✓ You enjoy the feel of manual driving
Still not sure?
Book a single lesson in each and decide for yourself. One hour in an automatic and one hour in a manual will tell you more than any guide.
Most learners know within the first 20 minutes which one feels right.
Book a Trial LessonCareer, Insurance, and Travel
Jobs that need a full manual licence
Some semi-state and public sector roles list a full (unrestricted) driving licence as a requirement. An Garda Siochana, the Defence Forces, and some HSE positions specify this. If one of these careers is in your plans, manual might be the safer bet. Most private sector employers do not specify.
Insurance with Code 78
Your insurance pool may be slightly smaller with a Code 78 licence. Some insurers treat it exactly the same as a full licence. Others have a smaller panel for automatic-only drivers. In practice, the price difference is minimal. Shop around and you will find quotes close to manual licence holders.
Renting cars abroad
Automatic rental cars cost more in mainland Europe, especially in Spain, Portugal, and Italy. If you travel often and rent cars, a manual licence gives you the cheapest options. In the US, Canada, and the UAE, almost everything is automatic anyway.
Common Questions
Most learners find it easier, yes. No clutch means no stalling. No gear changes means more focus on observation and positioning. The test itself is identical. The same routes, the same marking. But automatic learners tend to make fewer mechanical errors.
Yes. Your completed EDT lessons carry over. You do not need to restart. Just let your instructor know and you will switch cars from the next lesson. The EDT logbook does not care what transmission you use.
Not significantly. Some insurers treat Code 78 the same as a full licence. A few have a smaller panel. The difference in quotes is usually less than 5%. Always compare multiple insurers before you buy.
Yes. Sit the driving test again in a manual car. Pass it, and the Code 78 restriction is removed from your NDLS licence. No extra EDT is required. Just the test fee and a manual car on the day.
Book a Lesson and Try Both
Not sure? Try one lesson in each. You will know which suits you.
Book Your First LessonRSA School of Motoring is an RSA-approved driving school. All instructors hold ADI registration with the Road Safety Authority. See also: EDT Explained guide, Automatic Lessons, EDT Driving Lessons, Pretest Lessons.