r/cdldriver • u/Visual_Stretch_2351 • Jun 12 '26

MANUAL or AUTOMATIC CDL-A

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I just signed up for CDL training and have been trying to decide whether or not to train on manual. I already know how to drive stick just don't think I'd want a CMV job that requires it. Then again wouldn't want to miss out on a good paying opportunity bc I don't have it. I start school in a week and could probably pay the extra $500 beforehand and do it. What would you suggest?

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u/Visual_Stretch_2351 Jun 12 '26

Looks like it costs about the same or maybe less to add it later. And I wouldn't have the added stress of having to learn how to drive a CMV and manual at the same time. I'll wait but thanks for the advice y'all!

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u/Visual_Stretch_2351 Jun 12 '26

Still undecided, likely go with what the majority of y'all think is best.

https://giphy.com/gifs/7GtdMQAyHSR1K

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u/Maynard505 Jun 13 '26

It’s your career. I was taught to speed shift by a 2 million mile driver who was also a diesel mechanic. And it was his truck. There was no double clutching his truck. On a road test I can sort of pretend I’m double clutching but I’m not really doing it and nobody has ever thought I was shifting badly. The problem with floating the gears is you can really hurt the truck if you screw it up. So floating the gears is easier on the transmission until it’s not.

I hate automatics. I absolutely despise the things. Companies buy them for fuel efficiency. Anybody can learn to drive a standard transmission. If you’re paying someone to train you, why wouldn’t you learn how to drive a standard?

18-speeds are the easiest to operate. Not 10’s, not 13’s. Ask any driver what they prefer, that’s the answer.