In a method for operating a transmission device, a pressure test is carried out when switching from a standby mode to a power saving mode. When executing the pressure test the gear selector valves of the gear selectors of the transmission device are activated to assume their neutral position, and a shifting valve is activated to assume an operating position in which a flow connection between a common feed line for the gear selectors and a pressure source is cut. Subsequently, the gear selector valve of at least one of the gear selectors is activated to assume a shift position, and a position of the gear selector piston of the at least one gear selector is determined over a specific time period. The presence of a malfunction of the shifting valve is recognized when the position of the gear selector piston changes during the specific time period.