Frequently Asked Questions
Here at Automatic Driver Training, we have put together a collection of the most commonly asked questions about learning to drive with us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q - Is learning to drive hard?
A- Learning to drive is unique to everyone, some people find it easier than others. Like learning any new skill, we all learn in our individual way that suits us best. Our person centred and adaptive approach ensures that your lessons with us are individually tailored to the way that you learn best.
Q - How long does it take to learn to drive?
A - How long does any new skill take to learn? We all learn in our own way at our own pace. Our lessons are unique and tailored to each individual so that you learn the best way and pace that suits you. At ADT it is our mission to create safe and confident drivers.
Q - When’s the best time to learn to drive?
A - Now! It’s never too late to learn to drive, whether you’re 17, 37 or 77, our individual and tailored approach will ensure anyone and everyone has the potential to obtain their license!
Q - What is an automatic car?
A - An Automatic car is identical to a manual car in almost every single way, except in an automatic, the car changes gear for you. This means that automatic cars do not have a gear selector (operated by your left hand) or a clutch (operated by your left foot)
Q - Why should I choose an automatic over a manual?
A - People often find the hardest part of learning to drive is the clutch and gear change combination. In an automatic this is done for you by the car, leaving your left foot and left hand free. People often find this easier and prefer this set up. With the technology in cars ever changing, automatic cars have become more economical, more readily available and share almost every comfort that a manual car has, other than the added comfort of not having to worry about gears. In the majority of foreign countries and continents (Australia, USA, Europe) the automatic car is more prominently used. With the future of vehicles looking electric, almost all electric cars are offered only in automatic configuration.
Q - Can I drive a manual car after learning in a Automatic?
A - only if you complete and pass your practical driving exam in a manual car. While this was often the reason behind more people learning in a manual, as previously answered, the availability and development of automatic cars is almost identical to their manual counterparts. In addition, the future itself is looking more electric and automatic by the day, the manual car is potentially becoming a technology of the past.
Q - I took lessons in the past with another driving instructor, will I have to start again?
A - No! On your first contact with us, we will discuss your current experience with you. Honesty here is best as this will enable us to put together a picture of your current ability. On your first lesson, we will go through your experience and knowledge and recap what you’ve done before to ensure that you are still able to do so in a safe, confident and correct manner.
Q - I’m scared about learning to drive!
A - that’s perfectly normal! We were all scared on our first lesson, it’s a big skill to learn, but remember this, every person you see driving a car started in the same position as you, no one was born with the ability to drive, we have all been there, our instructors included! We will work with you to help you overcome any and all concerns that you have.
Q - What do I need to learn to drive?
A - A provisional driving license and the willingness and enthusiasm to learn!
Q - I have a disability, can I learn to drive?
A - Of course you can, we pride ourselves on being able to offer driving lessons to individuals with physical/learning disabilities and difficulties. Our instructors have previously worked in teaching and supporting individuals with disabilities and difficulties for several years. We will work with you to help highlight any adaptations you need or require to learn to drive.