Manual Cars in the UK Are Fading — What the Figures Reveal

More UK learner drivers are opting for automatic tests, as changing transmission trends reflect larger shifts toward EVs and regulatory shifts.

25% of Tests Now in Automatics

About 470,000 out of 1.8 million driving tests in the UK were automatic last year, marking automatic tests at around 25%.

From 6% to a Quarter in a Decade

In 2015, only roughly 6% of tests were automatic; now that figure has grown significantly to about one in four.

EVs and the 2030 Regulations Drive the Change

With a legal ban on new petrol/diesel car sales starting in 2030, learners are increasingly choosing automatic or EV‑friendly vehicles.

Automatic Tests Forecast to Reach Nearly 29%

Experts expect the share of tests taken in automatics to approach 29% next year if current growth rates continue.

Licence Restrictions Come Into Play

Passing in automatic limits the driving licence to automatics only; drivers wanting manual capability must take another test in a manual car.

Automatics Seen as Easier for Many Learners

Driving instructors report that automatic vehicles reduce complexity: no clutch control or stalling, letting learners focus more on road awareness.

Time and Convenience Also Factors

Automatic lessons often require fewer technical skills, making them quicker or less daunting for many learners.

Manual Skills Still Valued

Manual licences remain the most flexible—it allows drivers to use both manual and automatic vehicles, useful for travel, rentals or career needs.

This article is made and published by Asger Risom, which may have used AI in the preparation