Category B with automatic transmission: what code 78 means

Code 78 records that the practical test was taken in a vehicle with automatic transmission and restricts driving to automatic vehicles in the relevant category. Before the test, confirm the vehicle, transmission and resulting licence entry with the school or licensing office.

Meaning of code 78

Code 78 is a restriction linked to the transmission of the test vehicle. If you obtain a B licence by taking the practical test in an automatic car, the code may be printed on your licence and you may not drive manual vehicles in that category. It does not limit engine power or create a different category; it concerns whether you may use a manual transmission. Read the restriction together with any other codes on your licence.

Before booking, ask the driving school which car will be used and whether it is manual or automatic. A clutchless gearbox or sequential mode is not enough to determine the test classification: check how the vehicle is treated under test rules. If you want to drive both automatic and manual cars, ask the licensing office which test vehicle avoids the code. The choice may also be affected by adaptations or medical conditions, so clarify your circumstances before attending.

Changing the restriction

If your licence carries code 78 and you want to drive a manual vehicle, do not assume that requesting a replacement card is enough. Check the current procedure for removing the restriction; the office may require you to demonstrate manual driving ability according to its instructions. Until the code is removed, drive only compatible automatic vehicles in your licensed category. Check the document issued after any update.

Theory preparation covers the same traffic principles, but coordinating clutch and gears requires real driving practice. An app can help review signs, priority and test questions; it cannot certify your use of a gearbox. If your restriction comes from a medical condition or vehicle adaptation, ask the licensing office before starting a procedure. Code 78 should not be confused with codes that specify other medical or vehicle requirements.

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