Should I Get a Manual CDL in Washington?
October 3, 2025
If you're thinking about getting your commercial driver's license (CDL), you’ve probably heard that you can choose to test in an automatic or manual truck for Class A. At New Sound CDL School, we offer both! Students who opt for the manual training often come back to tell us that they’re glad they did. But why not just test for the automatic license? It is cheaper and easier, after all.
Well, choosing a manual CDL gives you more control over your future. In this article, we’ll explain what a manual CDL is, why it matters, and who should seriously consider this option over just an automatic license.
What’s the Difference Between Manual and Automatic CDLs?
When you train for your Class A CDL exam, you have to decide whether or not you want to be trained on a manual transmission.
- If you test in an automatic truck, your license will have an “E” restriction. This means you’re not legally allowed to drive a semi-truck with a manual transmission.
- If you train and test in a manual truck, you’ll be licensed to drive both manual and automatic trucks without restriction.
This one choice can impact your future job options, salary, and flexibility down the road.
What is an “E” Restriction?
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the “E” restriction is applied to CDLs when a driver takes the skills test in a vehicle that has an automatic transmission. It looks like this on your license:
Restriction E – No manual transmission CMV
This means you aren’t allowed to operate:
- Manual 10-speed or 13-speed transmissions
- Split-shifter trucks
- Many older or specialized commercial vehicles
Removing the “E” restriction later requires you to completely retest in a manual truck. That means scheduling another DMV exam, finding a manual truck to rent, and taking time off work to train and test again.
Why Do Some Companies Still Use Manual Trucks?
Most large carriers are converting to a majority of automatic fleets, but that doesn’t mean manual trucks are going away.
Here’s where manual CDL skills still matter:
1. Smaller or Family-Owned Fleets
Many local and regional carriers still run manual trucks. They hold onto them longer because they’re more durable, easier to maintain, and better suited for certain loads.
2. Construction and Logging Work
Manual trucks are preferred in heavy-duty hauling, construction sites, and logging roads, especially in Washington and the Pacific Northwest.
3. Owner-Operators and Older Rigs
Buying a used truck is cheaper than buying new, and most used trucks are manual. If you plan to own your own rig one day, being licensed to drive manual gives you far more options.
What Are the Benefits of Getting a Manual CDL?
Here’s why we recommend manual CDL training to serious students:
More Job Opportunities
Not every company drives automatics. If you’re restricted to automatic, you’ll miss out on great jobs with regional carriers, construction companies, or local routes. Job boards will often list “manual CDL required” in the posting.
Better Earning Potential
Manual-qualified drivers can take on more roles that are often higher-paying ones. If you’re hired to drive for a farm, gravel pit, or niche freight company, that skill pays off.
Easier to Rent or Borrow Trucks
If your license has no restrictions, you can legally drive any transmission. That flexibility helps when testing, renting a truck, or jumping in to help a company short on drivers.
Respect in the Industry
Ask any long-time trucker and they’ll tell you manual drivers earn a different kind of respect. It shows you took the harder road and mastered more than just the basics.
Is Manual CDL Training Hard?
We won’t sugarcoat it: yes, it’s harder than automatic.
You’ll need to learn:
- Clutch control and shifting
- Gear matching (RPMs)
- Downshifting and braking safely
- Hill starts and tight maneuvering
But here’s the truth: with our state-best instruction, you will master it.
We train students in both 10-speed and 13-speed manual transmissions. Whether you’ve driven stick before or never touched a clutch, we walk you through every step. Our experienced instructors are seasoned CDL veterans with educational training who teach manual shifting in a way that clicks. We take our time and make sure you’re ready.
Who Should Get a Manual CDL?
We recommend testing in a manual truck if you:
- Want access to more job types and companies
- Plan to become an owner-operator
- Want to drive dump trucks, logging trucks, or specialty freight
- Live in a rural area where automatic fleets are less common
- Want a long-term career without limitations
Even if your first job will be in an automatic truck, you may want to make this one-time effort to secure future flexibility.
What If I Already Have an Automatic Restriction?
Don’t worry, you can always upgrade.
We’ve helped many drivers remove the E restriction and get their manual license.
Here’s what to do:
- Enroll in manual transmission training at New Sound CDL School.
- Learn shifting, clutch control, and advanced driving.
- Schedule a skills test with the DOL in a manual truck.
- Pass the road test, and your restriction will be lifted.
We provide the truck, instructor, and preparation you need. You’ll walk into the test confident and ready to pass.
Our Manual CDL Training Program
At New Sound CDL School, our manual CDL students get:
- One-on-one instruction from expert trainers
- Daily practice with clutch control, gear shifts, and turns
- Real-world simulations on Washington roads
- Preparation for the DOL road test
- A test-ready manual truck to use for your skills exam
Our training yard is paved and designed for real-world backing and shifting scenarios. We never cut corners and we never push you to test until you’re fully ready.
A Manual CDL is Future-Proof
It’s easy to think short-term. But trucking is a long game.
Getting your CDL with an automatic-only restriction is like learning to swim with floaties. Sure, you can do it, but you’ll always be limited.
If you’re serious about your career and want to be ready for whatever comes next, consider training in a manual truck. It’s a little harder now, but a lot more valuable later.
Questions About Manual CDL Training?
We’re here to help. Whether you're a first-time driver or looking to upgrade your license, our team is ready to guide you through the process.
Call us, email us, or drop by our Fife, WA campus to see the trucks, meet the instructors, and get your questions answered.
You only get one shot at starting your trucking career right. Make it count!
FAQs About Manual CDLs
How long does it take to learn manual shifting on a semi-truck?
Most students can learn the basics within the first week of training. We provide daily practice, repetition, and individual coaching until you’re confident. We’ll even spend extra time training with you if that’s what you need!
Can I remove my automatic restriction later?
Yes, but you’ll need to retake the skills test in a manual truck. That’s why many students prefer to learn manual the first time around.
Do manual semi-trucks still exist?
Absolutely! While major fleets are trending towards automatic, thousands of trucks on the road still use manual transmissions, especially in construction, agriculture, and local freight.
Will I make more money with a manual CDL?
It depends on the job, but many manual-qualified drivers can apply for higher-paying roles that automatic-only drivers cannot. Some smaller companies even offer bonuses for drivers with full CDL privileges. It’s an added skill that will actually pay off.
Washington’s Top-Rated Manual CDL Training
A manual CDL is a powerful tool. It gives you more options, more earning power, and more respect in the industry. It’s not the easy way, but it is the smart one for most drivers.
Train with us at New Sound CDL School, and we’ll make sure you learn the skills, pass the test, and walk away with a license that opens every door.
If you’re ready to get started or just want to learn more, contact us today! Let’s shift your future into high gear.