RTA announces conditions for shifting from auto to manual transmission driving licenses

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has opened a door enabling interested Automatic Transmission driver license holders to shift their licenses to Manual Transmission, in the light vehicles category. The service will start this October.

“It is now possible for holders of light driving licenses in the category of Automatic Transmission to apply for shifting their licenses to Manual Transmission category, as of this October,” said Jamal Al Sada Director of Drivers Licensing, at RTA’s Licensing Agency.

“Applicants would be tested without subjected to training lessons at the RTA. The test would not relate to driving skills, but would rather focus on the handling of the manual gear system. In case of failing the test, the applicant would be notified about his or her weaknesses and may select the appropriate way for improving those points before re-applying for a test,” he noted.

“Dealing with Manual Transmission needs certain skills such as the attention to the road while shifting gears, ability to shift gears without distraction, and coping with the smooth shifting between gears while driving. It is a different case scenario for holders of Manual Transmission driving licenses. They can easily cope with the Automatic Transmission without requiring tests, as the automatic transmission needs no action while driving.

“RTA is making every effort to meet the needs of drivers through streamlined processes as they are closely related to the safety & security of roads and users. Such efforts translate into realising RTA’s vision of Safe & Smooth Transport for All,” added Al Sada.

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