A shift control apparatus has first, second, third and fourth engagement elements, and a shift control processing unit engaging the first and the second engagement elements in order to realize a first shift speed, engaging the third and the fourth engagement in order to realize a second shift speed, and inhibiting an increase in torque capacity of one of the first and second engagement elements before starting of release of the second engagement element when shifting from the first to the second shift speed. During shifting from the first to the second shift speed, an increase in torque capacity of one of the first and second engagement elements is inhibited before starting of release of the second engagement element. This prevents a step-like shift shock from being caused by the slowed progression of shifting when release of the second engagement element is started.