Spain Sees Surge in Automatic-Only Driving Licenses Amidst Market Shift

The number of individuals obtaining a Spanish driving license limited to automatic transmission vehicles is on the rise, a trend closely mirroring the evolving automotive landscape. This shift is driven by the increasing prevalence of automatic transmissions in new vehicles, particularly electric and hybrid models, and a generational inclination away from manual gearboxes.

Automatic Transmission License Explained

Contrary to popular belief, there isn’t a separate license category for automatic cars in Spain. Instead, obtaining a standard Category B driving license with an automatic-only restriction involves a specific annotation, known as “code 78,” added to the license document. This code signifies that the holder is only permitted to drive vehicles equipped with automatic transmission. Conversely, drivers who pass their practical exam in a manual car are qualified to operate both manual and automatic vehicles without any limitations. The Spanish Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) mandates this annotation based on Instruction 2019/C-134, aligning with the General Regulations for Drivers.

Market Trends Fueling Demand

The surge in demand for automatic-only licenses is directly linked to changes in the automotive market. While automatic transmissions were once a rarity in Spain, they are now becoming standard, especially in the rapidly growing electric and hybrid vehicle segments, which often forgo a clutch pedal. Data from El Periódico indicates that out of approximately 600,000 Category B licenses issued annually in Spain, between 33,000 and 37,000 are now issued with the “code 78” restriction, representing between 5.5% and 6.2% of the total. Auto school sector figures suggest this number could be closer to 10%.

Generational Shift and Auto School Adaptation

Auto schools have noted the implementation of this option for several years. Raül Viladrich, president of the Federació d’Autoescoles de Catalunya, observed that demand began increasing between 2018 and 2020. He also points to a generational change, with younger drivers increasingly viewing manual transmission as outdated and expressing no desire to learn or operate a manual clutch.

The learning process for an automatic-only license mirrors the traditional Category B license, involving theoretical exams, practical lessons, and a final driving test. The key difference lies in conducting both the practical lessons and the final test in an automatic transmission vehicle. Importantly, drivers do not have to commit to this option at the outset; they can begin with manual lessons and switch to automatic if they choose. Elena García, an alumna who opted for the automatic license, shared her experience: “I did 15 classes and decided on the automatic.” She initially started with manual but switched after 15-20 lessons, finding it more practical as her household car was already automatic. Despite the restriction, she has not found it problematic for daily use or when renting cars.

Consequences of Driving a Manual with an Automatic-Only License

Operating a manual transmission vehicle with an automatic-only license carries significant penalties. Sergio Olivera, president of the Confederation of National Auto Schools (CNAE), stated that drivers with the “code 78” restriction are prohibited from driving manual cars. If caught, they face a fine of 500 euros and the loss of four driving license points, classifying the offense as very serious, akin to driving without a license. To gain the ability to drive manual cars, individuals with an automatic-only license must retake the practical driving test using a manual transmission vehicle, though the theoretical part does not need to be repeated.

Future Changes and EU Directives

This requirement is set to evolve with a European directive, approved in late 2025, aiming to replace the full practical exam for removing the transmission restriction. Instead, a seven-hour training course at a driving school will suffice to obtain an unrestricted Category B license. Viladrich indicated that this course could be completed either during the initial license acquisition process or later. The implementation in Spain is anticipated around 2029, though a definitive date is yet to be set. This streamlined approach is already in practice in countries like France, Germany, and Switzerland.

The automatic transmission has seen a dramatic increase in market share. Ten years ago, automatic cars accounted for about 20% of new registrations in Spain; today, this figure exceeds 50%, driven by the rise of EVs and hybrids. However, Spain, along with Italy and other Mediterranean countries, still retains a higher proportion of manual transmissions compared to regions like the UK, USA, and China, where automatics are predominant.

Key facts
| Aspect | Detail |
| :——————————- | :—————————————————————— |
| License type | Category B with “code 78” annotation for automatic transmission only |
| Fine for driving manual | 500 euros and 4 points deduction |
| Future change | 7-hour training course to remove restriction (expected 2029) |
| Market share of automatics in Spain | Over 50% of new registrations |

This development is significant for ReviewArticle readers as it reflects a broader technological shift in personal transportation, directly impacting user choices and future driving regulations. The increasing adoption of automatic transmissions in vehicles, particularly in the context of electric and hybrid mobility, is a key trend in the AI and automotive sectors.

Source: Spain has a license only for automatic cars and more and more people are choosing it, Xataka, https://www.xataka.com/movilidad/sacarte-carnet-solo-para-coches-automaticos-facil-tiene-letra-pequena-que-te-puede-costar-500-euros

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