Yes, automatic cars are generally easier to drive — especially for beginners. In an automatic car, there's no clutch pedal, and gear changes happen automatically, which allows the driver to focus more on steering, braking, and road awareness. This can make learning to drive less stressful and more comfortable, particularly in heavy traffic like what we experience in cities such as Nairobi or Mombasa. However, it’s important to note that if you take your driving test using an automatic car, your driving license will be restricted to automatic vehicles only. If you want the flexibility to drive both manual and automatic cars in Kenya, we recommend learning with a manual vehicle or taking a few lessons in both. At Optimum, we offer training in both manual and automatic cars so you can choose what suits your needs best.

When you’re ready, your instructor will help schedule your driving test once the Exam Booking Fee has been paid. Alternatively, you can contact our Central Booking Office directly. Simply provide your learner’s permit number along with your payment details, and we’ll arrange the test for you. While it's also possible to book your driving test directly through the NTSA (Transport), please note that doing so does not guarantee the availability of your specific instructor on the test day.

The number of lessons needed varies from person to person. Every learner has different abilities, experience levels, and opportunities to practice outside of class. That's why it's impossible to give an exact number of lessons over the phone without first assessing your current skills. At Optimum Driving School, one of our qualified instructors will evaluate your driving ability and how much practice you’re likely to get between lessons. Based on that, we’ll give you a realistic estimate of how many lessons you may need to become test-ready. Keep in mind, there’s no such thing as too many lessons — the more professional instruction you receive, the more confident and safer you'll be when driving independently.

The decision to learn in an automatic transmission or a manual car depends upon many factors including personal choice, skill level, confidence and the cars you are able to practice in. It is important to be aware however, that in city if you gain your licence in an automatic car; you are not permitted to drive a manual until you successfully pass a practical test with City Transport, in a manual vehicle.

This timeframe will vary for absolutely every student. You are ready for the practical driving test when you can drive confidently and consistently without the help of your instructor. As you are getting closer, your Instructor will run you through a mock test to demonstrate what stage you are up to.

Driving involves combining theory with physical skills and judgement. Practice is essential and the more practice you have, the less number of professional driving lessons you may require to be at the standard required to pass the test. Practice is vital and the requirement is that a new driver has enough hours of experience prior to sitting for their practical driving test.