How to Drive an Automatic Car: A Step-by-Step Guide

Whether you're a new driver or switching over from a manual, this step-by-step guide shows you exactly how to drive an automatic car in Ontario. From learning how to start an automatic car to parking safely, follow these 9 simple steps to build confidence behind the wheel.
 

Step 1: Start an Automatic Car

Beginners looking for how to start an automatic car must first push down the brake pedal with their right foot, then insert the key (or press the push-button ignition) and turn it clockwise to start the car. This is the first and most important step in learning how to drive a car step by step.
 

Step 2: Select Your Gear

Place a foot on the brake pedal and shift the gear lever into "Drive”, which is marked with a "D" on the display panel. The same will get highlighted when you select it.

For cases where shift levers are mounted on the steering column, pull the lever towards you, then move it up and down to select a gear. In cases where shift levers are mounted on the floor, a side button is usually present for unlocking the lever. You can then move it along its track into position.
 

Step 3: Release the Parking Brake

This either comes as a pedal on the far left side of the foot area or as a lever between the two front seats. There might be a button to push on the topside model or a release lever above the lower parking brake before one can disengage it.
 

Step 4: Set a Car in Motion

Release pressure from the brake pedal slowly, and the vehicle will slowly get moving. Next, take your foot off the brake and use it to press the gas pedal gently. This will lead the car to move faster.
 

Step 5: Use the Neutral Gear

Individuals must use the "neutral" gear only when there is no need for controlling the car’s speed, not while driving regularly. This includes situations when a car is being towed or pushed.

Step 6: Using Lower Gears

The gears denoted by "1," "2," and "3" are lower gears. These work as a kind of in-engine brake system when drivers need to save their vehicle’s actual brakes. The lower gears can come in handy while going down steep hills. Drivers must use first gear only when they want to travel very slowly. They need not stop while shifting between the lower gears and drive.
 

Step 7: Stop a Car

Apply brakes for slowing or stopping a car. Take your right foot off the accelerator pedal, place it on the brake, and apply gradual pressure so that you do not jerk to a halt.
 

Step 8: Drive in Reverse Gear

Individuals having a search query on how to drive a car backwards, must ensure that their car is at a complete stop before the gears change in or out of "reverse." 

You can slide the gear shift for choosing the gear marked as "R" and look around for any possible obstructions. Then gently place your foot on the accelerator after removing it from the brake.

While turning in “reverse”, the vehicle turns in the same direction in which the wheel is turned.

Step 9: Park a Car

Apply gradual pressure to the brake pedal, and slide the shift lever back into the "P" position if you want to bring a car to a complete stop. Turn the key counter-clockwise to turn off the engine. Additionally, turn headlights off and apply the parking brake before you get out of your vehicle.

That's it - now you know how to drive a car step by step, from starting the engine to parking safely. If you'd like hands-on practice with a certified instructor, Gold Star Driving School's MTO-approved Beginner Driver Education (BDE) course covers automatic and manual driving, road test preparation, and in-car training across Mississauga, Toronto, North York, and Scarborough.
 

FAQ

Q: How do you start an automatic car?

A: Press the brake pedal with your right foot, insert the key (or press the ignition button) and turn it clockwise - or press it once for push-button models. Keep your foot on the brake before shifting into 'Drive.'

Q: What is the easiest way to learn how to drive a car step by step?

A: Follow a structured sequence: start the car, select your gear, release the parking brake, set the car in motion, and practice stopping and parking - ideally with a certified instructor.

Q: Do you need to use a clutch in an automatic car?

A: No. Automatic cars don't have a clutch pedal - the car shifts gears on its own, so you only use the brake and accelerator with your right foot.

Q: What do P, R, N, and D mean on an automatic car?

A: P is Park, R is Reverse, N is Neutral, and D is Drive. Always come to a complete stop before shifting between these.

Q: Is it hard to switch from manual to automatic driving?

A: Most drivers find automatic easier to learn since there's no clutch or gear-shifting to coordinate - you mainly focus on steering, braking, and accelerating.

Q: What is the first step in driving an automatic car?

A: The first step is starting the car safely: press the brake, then turn the key or press the ignition button before shifting out of Park.

Q: How do you park an automatic car safely?

A: Bring the car to a complete stop, press the brake, shift into Park (P), and apply the parking brake if needed before turning off the engine.

Also read: How to Parallel Park: A Step-by-Step Guide