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if i took my restricted licence test in an automatic and then my full licence test in an automatic, could i then LEAGALLY drive a manual?? my friend says this is true but it seems unsafe to me that youre legally allowed to drive a car you havent been tested in, especially a manual as the control is so different. please help. Lorane

Your friend is correct, once you have your full licence you can drive either a manual or an automatic vehicle.

Driver confidence along with knowing and experiencing the road rules are two of the biggest hurdles any learner driver needs to come to grip with when getting behind the wheel of any motor vehicle.

Driving an automatic vehicle only during the restricted period allows a restricted driver to concentrate on those factors rather than having the added pressure of operating a manual transmission where clutch control and gear selection can become a big distraction.

Learning to drive a manual is another step for sure, like moving to a different make and model of vehicle so adequate supervision and training needs to be provided. Its then up to each individual to decide when they are ready to drive a manual unsupervised.