
About Learn 2 Drive Manual
In 2025 I made a decision to purchase a new car. Among all of the YouTube car reviews I kept running across a single theme - All fun cars are best with manual transmissions.
Problem...I was over 40 years old, and hadn't driven a manual car for 20 years! To say I was rusty was an understatement.
A Solution! Beg my friend to allow me to shake the rust off by driving his manual Mazda 3 - Thanks Liam! If it wasn't for him, I would've never gotten my groove back, never purchased my Mazda MX-5, never started on this journey.
Not everyone has a Liam, or the confidence to fail miserably in front of their friends. Thankfully I had both.
This is why I created this business. For those who do not have a Liam - I will be there for you. I understand your desire to learn to drive, I will get you confident in driving a manual and your friends never have to know.
- Travis Russell
- Owner and Instructor, Learn 2 Drive Manual
What we do differently
COMFORT. When it comes to learning something new, the best place to start is where you are the most comfortable - In your neighbourhood. We come to you!
SCHOOLS OUT! No classroom, no homework. We cut all that out to get to the fun part, the driving! This is not a drivers course, this is driving for the pure enjoyment of it. Valid driver's license required.
PASSION! I was inspired by my own journey, and I want other's to have a similar experience.
INDIVIDUALLY TAILORED. All L2DManual sessions are done 1 on 1.
COMMUNITY. Write your own blog on the website about your journey and share with others. Also, our YouTube channel will develop along with our community.
And last but certainly not least...
THE CAR
The 2025 Mazda MX-5 (Miata) is our training car and the car that inspired me to start this journey.
- One of the best manual transmissions to learn on
- small size
- FUN!

Services
What We Offer
My services are tailored to you. Based on your own confidence behind the wheel of manual transmission cars, we have 3 offerings (plus 1 bonus) for however much time you want to practice -- Or maybe you just want to take a Mazda MX-5 for an extended drive, I won't judge.
Got All Day
Why does my car have a 3rd pedal? We will go over everything and ruin automatics for you afterward.
Manual 101
It's you, me and the car for up to 2 hours. You are confident in automatic cars, you have watched YouTube videos on driving manual. I got you, and you got this!
Refresher
Up to 1 hour of fun. You are familiar with manual transmission but maybe it's been a while. You are uncomfortable with stalling a car during a test drive with the dealership salesperson sitting in the passenger seat - Hi Zack!
FAQs
Common Questions
Find answers to frequently asked questions about our manual driving services. If you have more questions, feel free to reach out to us directly
How do I schedule a manual driving lesson?
To schedule a manual driving lesson, simply click on the "Book Online" at the top and follow the prompts.
How long are the sessions?
The duration of a manual driving course varies based on the service you choose. The 3 services we offer provide flexibility from >1 hour, up to over 2 hours. Sessions can be booked by clicking "Book Online" at the top.
Do you provide pick-up and drop-off services?
Yes, we will show up at your door or where ever you wish to meet to start. Best to pick an area you are familiar with, as this will make learning to drive manual easier on you.
When the session is over, we will return to the pick-up point.
Are you available in my area?
At the moment, we are only able to serve the Ottawa region. If you are close, send us an email using the contact form below and we will respond as soon as possible.
How much driving experience do I need?
All our customers much posses valid Ontario G2 licenses or equivalent.
Can you speak other languages?
Unfortunately I didn't pay enough attention in school. I am only able to help in English.
Contact
Get in Touch
Have a question or need more information? Reach out to us via the contact form below, and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

