Automatic
Driving Lessons.
Learn to drive in an automatic car with a verified local instructor. No clutch, no manual gears — just you, the road, and a patient qualified teacher.
What are automatic
driving lessons?
Automatic driving lessons use a car without a clutch pedal or manual gear stick. The transmission shifts gears for you, so you concentrate on steering, observation, and road positioning — the fundamentals that examiners actually test.
In Australia, automatic licences are fully valid for everyday driving. The only restriction is you cannot legally drive a manual (stick-shift) vehicle — if you want that flexibility, see our manual driving lessons page.
Why choose
automatic lessons?
Faster to learn
Without clutch control and gear changes to master, most learners progress faster in an automatic — more mental bandwidth for road awareness.
Ideal for city driving
Stop-start traffic is effortless in an automatic. No stalling, no rolling back on hills — perfect for Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and other dense urban areas.
Less stressful on test day
Automatic licence tests have fewer mechanical components to worry about. Focus on your hazard perception, observations, and road positioning instead.
Lower running costs for new drivers
Modern automatic cars are nearly as fuel-efficient as manuals — and increasing numbers of EVs and hybrids are automatic only.
Common questions
about auto lessons.
Can I drive a manual car on an automatic licence?
No — an automatic-only licence restricts you to automatic transmission vehicles. If you want to drive both, you'll need to pass your test in a manual car (which covers automatic too).
Is an automatic licence recognised interstate?
Yes. An automatic restriction is noted on your licence and applies across all Australian states and territories.
How many lessons will I need?
It varies. Most learners need 20–30 hours of professional instruction alongside their 120 logbook hours (NSW) or equivalent. Your ACOFEL instructor will give you a personalised estimate after your first lesson.
What type of automatic car do instructors use?
All ACOFEL automatic lesson vehicles are dual-control — the instructor has their own brake pedal for safety. Vehicles vary by instructor but are typically late-model sedans or hatchbacks.
Can I switch from automatic to manual lessons later?
Yes. You can book manual lessons separately or with a different instructor. Completing your test in a manual gives you an unrestricted licence covering automatic vehicles too.
Ready to book your
automatic lesson?
Search verified automatic instructors near you, compare prices, and book online in minutes.