The demand for automatic car licenses explodes in Spain

The trend towards automatic cars is not just a fad: it is revolutionizing the way driving licenses are obtained in Spain. With more drivers choosing to avoid manual shifting, the situation raises doubts and controversy.

But, what is really the difference between the traditional license and the so-called license with code 78? And why does this option seem to be gaining ground despite its restrictions?

The license with code 78: what it is and why it triumphs

A limited but increasingly requested permit

Code 78 is aimed at candidates who want to drive only vehicles with automatic transmission. This type of permit, regulated by DGT Instruction 2019/C-134, allows taking the exam and practice only with automatic cars. This represents a saving and convenience for many, especially for those who find manual shifting a hassle.

According to official data, the demand for the license with code 78 accounts for between 5.5% and 6.2% of the B licenses issued annually in Spain, although sources in the sector raise this figure to 10%. Raül Viladrich, president of the Federation of Driving Schools of Catalonia, confirms the continuous growth since 2018.

Limitations that do not go unnoticed

The downside of this permit is that it does not authorize driving vehicles with manual transmission. Those who breach this rule face a fine of up to 500 euros and the loss of 4 points on their license. It is not a small matter when we know that manual transmission still dominates the Spanish roads.

Sergio Olivera, president of the National Confederation of Driving Schools, highlights that approximately 90% of drivers obtain the traditional manual license. So, if you opt for code 78, you must be clear about what type of car you want to drive.

The evolution of the automatic car and the impact on the driving license

The imminent farewell to manual transmission

Sources in the sector assure that from 2029 vehicles with manual transmissions will no longer be marketed in Europe, limiting this transmission to niche or very specific sports vehicles. The global trend clearly goes towards automatic, driven especially by the popularization of electric cars, which do not have manual shifting.

For this reason, the license with code 78 presents itself as an option with a future, especially for the new generations of drivers. But right now, the majority still prefer the traditional license, and many new drivers come from countries where automatic is the norm, such as northern Europe or the United States.

International comparison and adoption in Spain

A CarGurus study shows that in the United Kingdom only 25% of new cars sold have manual transmission, while in the United States more than 90% are automatic. In Spain, the adoption is slower but increasing.

Raül Viladrich explains that the preference for manual transmission in Spain and other Mediterranean countries is still notable, but the balance is slowly shifting towards automatic, especially with the boost from electric cars.

New developments in training and the transition to the unrestricted license

The seven-hour course that could change everything

A European directive scheduled to come into force in 2029 establishes that drivers with a license limited to automatic transmission can obtain the full license without having to retake the practical exam with manual transmission. It will only be necessary to complete a practical seven-hour course at a driving school.

Raül Viladrich comments that this measure, which can be taken during or after obtaining the license, has been welcomed by driving schools, which consider that it will eliminate the current obligation to retake the exam with manual transmission.

Opinions from the sector and future perspectives

Sergio Olivera points out that the entry into force of this directive in Spain is eagerly awaited and that it will facilitate the mobility of drivers with code 78 licenses, making it more attractive.

Thus, the transition towards more automated and accessible driving seems unstoppable, with a training system that adapts to technological change and the new realities of the European vehicle fleet.

The reality is that anyone considering getting a license needs to know what opting for code 78 implies and what may happen in the coming years with new regulations and car models.