We provide clear explanations, lessons outside of rush hours, and a calm learning environment that suits your pace and needs.
Manual driving lessons in Amsterdam
Earn your manual driving license in Amsterdam! At The Graduate, we help you master every skill needed to confidently drive a manual car, from busy city streets to the motorway. Our manual driving lessons are designed to give you full control behind the wheel and prepare you for independent driving in any situation.
A manual license gives you long-term freedom and flexibility. Whether you’re driving in the Netherlands, renting a car abroad, or switching vehicles in the future, manual car driving lessons are a smart investment.
More control and confidence with manual lessons
Manual driving means real control. You’ll learn to handle the clutch, shift gears smoothly, and control the car in any traffic condition. With our personal coaching, driving becomes second nature. We focus on:
The difference between manual and automatic driving lessons
Manual driving lessons focus on teaching you how to operate a car with a manual transmission. This includes learning to use the clutch, shift gears, and smoothly coordinate these movements. While it may require more practice initially, it provides a broader skill set and greater driving flexibility in the long term.
Why choose manual driving lessons?
Manual driving lessons are ideal for those who want full control of the vehicle and the ability to drive both manual and automatic cars. With a manual driving license, you are not restricted to only automatic cars, which can be a significant advantage. While learning to drive a manual car may take slightly longer due to the additional skills involved, many find it a more rewarding experience. Still not sure? We also offer automatic lessons and can help you decide what fits you best.
Manual driving license benefits
Once you pass your driving test with a manual transmission, you can drive both manual and automatic cars without any restrictions. This flexibility can be particularly useful if you plan to drive in regions where manual cars are more common or if you need to rent a car during your travels.
Ready to start your manual driving lessons? Book your trial lesson today at The Graduate Driving School. Click the button below or contact us through the form on this page to begin your journey toward becoming a confident and skilled driver.
The Graduate is here to help you hit the road
Driving lessons in English for expats in Amsterdam
Our instructors specialize in teaching English-speaking expats and international residents in Amsterdam. Whether you’re starting from scratch, converting a foreign license, or switching from automatic to manual, we’re here to help you succeed.
We support learners who:
- Are new to driving and want to build a solid foundation
- Want to switch from an automatic license
- Experience anxiety or nervousness behind the wheel
- Need to regain confidence after a break
Clear pricing & trial lessons
Start with a no-obligation trial lesson from €50. Our lesson packages begin at €1,250 and include at least 1.5 hours per lesson.
During your trial, we’ll assess your level and recommend the best approach. Our prices are fixed and transparent, with no hidden costs.
At The Graduate, you get driving lessons in English, at your pace, with no judgment and full support. Want to know who we are and how we can help? about-us. Learn more on our about us page
FAQs about manual driving lessons
How many manual driving lessons do I need?
Most students need 25 to 35 lessons to be ready for the Dutch driving exam.
How long does it take to learn to drive?
With two 90-minute lessons per week, most learners are ready in 3 to 4 months. In our expat speed course, this can be done in just three weeks.
What's the most cost-effective way to learn?
Our lesson packages offer the best value. You’ll save more compared to single lessons.
Where do the lessons start?
Lessons start in Amsterdam West, near Sloterdijk – close to the CBR exam centre (Naritaweg 150). That means you practice in the same area where you’ll take your test. It’s efficient and reassuring.
The Graduate Driving School
Contact
We offer flexible packages, including options like an intensive course or custom scheduling. Looking for a faster path? Check out our Expat Speed Course for an accelerated option. Fill out our contact form or give us a call. Our team speaks English and is happy to help you get started.
Happy Drivers
Reviews
Saida was brilliant, patient and really informative while keeping the lessons fun and enjoyable! I would highly recommend this to anyone looking to have driving lessons.
I had an excellent experience taking driving lessons with Saida. […] I was particularly nervous about driving on the highway. Saida really took time to understand what I needed and built up my confidence. It was really great to be instructed by her and she went out of her way to help me overcome my fears. I would highly recommend Saida as a driving instructor.
Such a good school, especially their instructor Saeeda who specializes in fear management in new drivers. She helped in boosting my confidence and actually start to enjoy driving. She was observant of my mistakes and had a very nice way to make me practice more. I would recommend Saeeda to anyone who might have fear of driving or trying it for the first time.
I really enjoyed Saida’s driving classes. I liked the fact that there was always a plan on how to improve my driving skills and the fact that after each lesson we had a discussion about how the driving session went and what we should work on improving next. She helped me as well in overcoming my fear of driving. I really recommend Saida!
I was very lucky that my friend recommended me Saida’s class! From the very first moment I felt comfortable, even I came to my first lesson stressed. She made me believe that I really can drive! Saida gives you as much freedom as you need during the class, allowing you to make small mistakes but learn from them. At the same time she is always ready to support and take over when it is really needed. Another great point that she gives you feedback after every class, so you constantly can grow! I am so happy to have my classes with Saida.
I had Hassan as my teacher and passed the exam on my first try. Overall, I was happy with how he was direct and to the point where it mattered and this ultimately led to fast improvement. At the same time, he was kind, friendly and fun to talk to, which led to a pleasant atmosphere during our lessons. Additionally, I struggled quite a bit with nervousness and a fear of driving. While Hassan was very considerate of this, he also pushed me to not doubt myself as much and helped me become a more decisive and confident driver. 10/10 recommend!
I am an experienced driver, but my driving license was not valid in the Netherlands. So I was looking for the intake lesson and liked the school Graduate from the first moment: quick response, exact understanding of my needs, good rates and accurate planning in everything. I had four lessons with Saida who was super reliable, attentive and caring. She guided me very well in a fun way and knew exactly how to improve my skills step by step. I passed practical exam on the first try thanks to Saida! I definitely recommend this school and instructor Saida many times over!
Saida was a great instructor. She was patient when I struggled and strict when she had to to make sure I was ready for the test. I really enjoyed my lessons with her and I got my license in the first try thanks to her guidance.