// Master stick shift with patient, English-speaking instructors
The driving school for Manual Driving
Want full control and maximum freedom when driving in the Netherlands and across Europe?
Our manual driving lessons help you master stick shift in a calm, structured way. With English-speaking instructors, clear explanations and routes that match your level, you’ll learn to handle busy Amsterdam traffic confidently, in a manual car you can drive anywhere.
4.8 rating of 200+ reviews
2000+ graduates
Got their Dutch driving licence with us
Full control
Learn smooth gear changes and hill starts
English instructors
Clear guidance for expats in Amsterdam
// For expats who want real control, not just an automatic licence
Why choose manual driving lessons?
In Amsterdam rijles volgen betekent druk verkeer, fietsers, trams en smalle straten. Door handgeschakeld te leren rijden, heb je volledige controle over je auto en ben je later flexibel: je mag zowel handgeschakelde als automatische auto’s rijden. Bij Graduate krijg je les in een moderne handgeschakelde lesauto, met een vaste instructeur die jouw voortgang goed in de gaten houdt.
We beginnen op rustige wegen zodat je de koppeling, het schakelen en wegrijden goed onder de knie krijgt. Daarna bouwen we uit naar drukker stadsverkeer, snelweg en examenroutes rond het CBR. Zo werk je stap voor stap naar een veilig en zelfstandig rijniveau, zonder onnodige lessen.
- No surprise: we start on quiet roads before busy city routes
- Clear explanations of clutch control, hill starts and roundabouts
- Perfect if you want maximum flexibility to drive any car in Europe
Start driving manual with confidence
- Free trial lesson* to see if manual is right for you
- Patient, English-speaking instructors familiar with expats
- Lessons focused on Amsterdam traffic & CBR exam routes
- Honest advice on how many lessons you really need
- Option to switch to automatic if manual doesn’t feel right
- Fast CBR Exam Booking
- Start Immediately
- Fixed Instructor & Modern Car
- Lessons in Dutch & English
// Personal guidance, modern cars, and a clear step-by-step approach
How our manual driving lessons work
Manual driving lessons explained
From your very first lesson you’ll learn how to handle a manual (stick-shift) car in real Amsterdam
traffic, but always in a calm and controlled way. Our English-speaking instructors explain clutch
control and gear changes clearly, so you build confidence step by step. We start on quieter roads
before moving towards busier streets, roundabouts and motorways.
You’ll drive with the same instructor in a modern manual car with the latest safety systems, which keeps your learning process consistent and less stressful. By the time you take your CBR exam, you’ll be ready to drive both manual and automatic cars – ideal for renting cars, sharing cars with friends or driving anywhere in Europe.
Fast Exam Booking
Your CBR test reserved right away
2000+ Students Passed
Proven success with locals & expats
4.8★ Google Reviews
Trusted by hundreds of happy drivers
Specialized Coaching
// Choose the Driving Course That Fits You
Why Driving School Graduate?
Wide Range of Lessons
From automatic and manual lessons in Amsterdam to refresher training, fear of driving programs and expat speed courses, we offer exactly the training you need.
Support Beyond the Wheel
We don’t just teach driving. With theory courses, theory exams and free advice, we guide you through the full process of getting your Dutch license.
Tailored for Every Student
Whether you’re an expat, a beginner or someone returning to driving, our certified instructors create a lesson plan that fits your pace and goals.
Proven Results
More than 2000 students have passed their license with us, thanks to patient instructors, modern cars and fast CBR exam booking.
// FAQs
Driving lessons,
tailored to expats
Can I take lessons in English?
Yes, all our instructors speak fluent English and are experienced in teaching expats in and around Amsterdam
Do I need to pass the theory before starting lessons?
No, you can start driving lessons right away! You only need to pass the theory before booking your CBR driving test.
How long is each lesson?
Standard lessons last 1.5 hours, giving you enough time to learn and practice without rushing.
How many lessons do I need to get my license?
It depends on your driving experience. On average, expat students need 20–30 lessons to feel confident and pass the CBR driving test.
What packages do you offer?
A detailed answer to provide information about your business, build trust with potential clients, and help convince the visitor that you are a good fit for them.
How does the trial lesson work?
During your first lesson we’ll assess your current skills, discuss your goals, and recommend the package that best fits your situation.
How soon can I start?
You can book your intake today and start driving this week – depending on availability
Do you have more questions?
Yes, we guide you through every step — from theory to practical lessons.
Address
Pick-up locations avaialbe across Amsterdam
Contact
Phone: +31 65 755 41 83
Email: info@rijschoolgraduate.nl
Opening hours
Monday – Friday: 09:00 – 17:00
Socials:
// Contact Us
Ask us anything about lessons, exams, or packages we’re here to help
// The Graduate Gram