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Can you drive an automatic car with a manual licence in Sweden?

What code 78 means and why a manual licence is not restricted.

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Short answer

Yes, a B licence without the automatic condition, code 78, is not limited to a gearbox type, so it also covers cars with automatic transmission. Code 78 is added when the driving test is taken in an automatic car, and it limits the licence to automatic vehicles.

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Why

  1. According to Transportstyrelsen, a test taken in a car with an automatic gearbox gives condition code 78 on the licence.
  2. According to the Driving Licence Act, category B covers cars up to 3.5 tonnes and light lorries, and the Act's list names no gearbox type.
  3. According to Transportstyrelsen, someone who has or has had a manual B licence can take other tests in an automatic car without getting code 78.

Details

The automatic condition shows on the back of the card as code A. or 78. If you rent a car, see car rental in Stockholm, and for the general rules see driving and traffic rules in Sweden. The rental company's own conditions apply on top, so check them with the company.

Tip

Look at the back of your card: Transportstyrelsen says a B licence with the automatic condition shows A. or 78. there.

What may differ

If your licence does carry code 78, the opposite applies: it limits you to automatic vehicles, and a manual car then needs a new driving test in a manual car.

People also ask

  • Can I drive an automatic with a manual licence in Sweden?
  • Does a manual licence cover automatic cars?

Sources

This answer is for reference only. Rules can change, so check Transportstyrelsen before you drive.

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