Should driving a manual transmission be a requirement for obtaining a driver's license in the USA?

yes

Don't bash those you don't know. You asked for opinions and got a VERY informed one.

I believe the ability to drive a manual should be required.

Today's manuals have parts inside that make them differ from the true manuals of the past. You slide a lever without thought, and it goes into gear.

People with manuals don't really know much more about their vehicles - I could point to many examples I know personally.

Today's automatics are more efficient with today's drivers. The automatic has become better and the driver worse.

For what it's worth, I have often drank a cup of coffee, smoked a cigarette, and yakked on the CB all while driving a "manual" in city traffic. So much for not being able to do things.

As I said, I prefer a manual - it is to my taste, I like the interaction.

I also believe that true safety lies with the operator, not the equipment. Therefor, the automatic is not to be blamed for lousy drivers and thier habits. That lies elsewhere.

If the ignorant and lazy were taught properly and followed the teaching......

But, the majority want "easier" whether it be ease of use or "do it for me".

Personally, I think being required to pass a test on basic walking (according to the rules and regulations) before even being allowed to enroll in Driver's Ed would be a damn fine first step.

While I do enjoy driving a manual transmission, I feel the answer is no!

1. Learning a stick should be reserved for drivers who have mastered basic driving skills. The beginners attention has too much to cope with and sensory overload takes place.

2. The place to learn automobile awareness should take place on a closed driving course where the student is encouraged to learn the limits of a cars handling. Where obstacles can be placed in the way to teach accident avoidance or it could be soaked to present the problems of standing water on the road.

3. Better fuel economy is not a guaranteed thing.

4. Teens should not be allowed to go to parties where the designated driver gets drunk.

Yes, there needs to be a better method of training drivers both old and young. But IMHO requiring drivers to be able to drive a manual transmission does not accomplish the task.

You are wrong. For safety, manual transmissions should be banned.

Manual transmission cars are used by those who want to drive faster, having more collisions.

Manual transmission have would working on the car instead of watching the road.

You are a wrong, you can talk or texting while driving a manual car -- quite easily.

You are wrong, automatic transmissions have better economy.

*You* are too uncoordinated to drive a manual transmission correctly -- that is why you have a synchronized transmission instead of a crash box. You do not double clutch and you do not toe and heel.

How often do you shift? You really think that people can't drive and text still? Sorry but that's not going to happen. There is NO WAY to get people to stop it. As to fuel economy that isn't the case anymore. The computers in vehicles have taken care of that.

no.

think of the stupid people who text and drive or eat/drink whatever.

it's just the other hand off the wheel.