Code 78 on driver's license: what it means and how to remove restrictions on manual transmission.

According to inkorr.com: Code '78' is increasingly appearing on new driver's licenses. This mark indicates that the practical exam was passed on a vehicle with an automatic transmission, so the driver can only operate such vehicles.

According to the Main Directorate of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, referencing Resolution No. 1007 of the Cabinet of Ministers dated September 22, 2021, code '78' is indicated in the twelfth column of the document. If the mark is absent, the license holder can drive cars with both 'manual' and 'automatic' transmissions.

It should be noted that this rule does not apply to those who obtained driver's licenses before 2021.

Training process

In driving schools, students can choose the type of vehicle for training: with manual or automatic transmission. The course on 'manual' includes 40 hours of practice, while on 'automatic' — only 38.

If a student trained on a vehicle with an automatic transmission and decides to take the exam on 'manual', they need to undergo practical training again on a manual transmission.

Removing the '78' restriction

Those who have a license with code '78' and wish to switch to a manual transmission must contact a driving school for retraining and pass a practical exam at the MIA service center. After successfully completing all stages, new licenses will be issued without restrictions — the driver will be able to operate vehicles of any type.

European approach

The mark '78' is not only a Ukrainian novelty but is also used in many countries of the European Union. Representatives of the Ministry of Internal Affairs note that the introduction of such a system is part of the Euro-integration process aimed at bringing Ukrainian services closer to European standards.

Moreover, it is important to consider the risks that may arise from independent modernization of a vehicle.

Thus, the appearance of code '78' on the driver's license means that its owner is allowed to operate only vehicles with an automatic transmission. Drivers with this code need to be aware of the procedure for removing this restriction, which involves retraining and passing an exam at the MIA. These innovations in Ukrainian legislation align with European standards and help bring the country closer to them.