Car dealerships want you to test drive cars, so there are not many requirements to be able to do so.
As long as you can show that you have a valid drivers license and at least some interest in buying then most will be happy to accommodate you.
It is a sales tool after all!
You are going to learn far more about a vehicle in two minutes of driving than you will with hours of online research.
So, if you have any hesitations in booking a test drive then this article should demystify the process for you.
What Are the Minimum Requirements for Test Drive
To meet the minimum requirements for a test drive, you only need to be old enough to buy a car, legally allowed to drive one, and have the intention to buy one.
Age
Most dealerships will require you to be at least 18 years old to test drive a vehicle, but others will not allow you to until 21.
So if you are under 21 make sure you check with the dealership ahead of time if you will meet their requirements for a test drive.
You can legally sign a contract from 18 years old. This can include a purchase contract, and a finance contract.
Both of which are required if buying through a dealership. If you can show you are a serious buyer while in that 18-20 year old range they may be more inclined to make an exception so they can make the sale.
Licence
A valid driver’s licence is a non-negotiable. This is both a legal and an insurance issue for the dealership.
Provisional licenses are ok in most circumstances unless the dealership has a specific policy excluding these drivers. But this would be rare.
You will need to present a physical copy of your license to the dealership prior to the test drive.
Intent to Buy
While a dealership cannot know for sure if you plan on buying the vehicle, they can generally fish out time wasters early in the process through the usual questions they ask.
Are you ready to buy, do you have finance approved, what is your budget?
If you cannot answer any of these then a salesperson may be less enthusiastic investing the time in a test drive.
However, new car dealerships are much more amenable to taking a new model for a spin.
They have to play the long game a little more as they usually only sell one brand of vehicle on-site and people generally shop around before committing to such a large purchase.
Book an Appointment to Inspect a Vehicle
Online
When you are browsing stock online you will often see an option to book an appointment online.
It is generally expected that a vehicle inspection will include a test drive.
You can lock in a time that works with just a few clicks!
Phone
If you have found the vehicle through a third party sales platform then you will have the option to call directly, or submit an online enquiry.
Making an appointment on the phone is quick and easy, and also gives you the chance to ask any initial questions you have about the vehicle.
Prior to the Test Drive
Provide Driver’s Licence
Once you provide your driver’s license the dealership are likely to make a copy for their records.
And just in case there are any insurance issues that arise after the test drive.
Inspect the Exterior
Before even sitting in the driver’s seat, take a slow walk around the car.
Check the paintwork for scratches, the tyres for tread depth, and the panels for any inconsistencies that might indicate prior repairs.
This initial inspection can highlight things that you may want to refer to when negotiating a price later on.
Inspect the Interior
Take your time checking out the interior. People are often in a hurry to start the car and get moving, even without being hurried along by the salesperson.
Spend a few minutes checking the internal functions such as the entertainment system, air conditioning, power windows, and any other features the car has.
Also take note of any unusual wear and tear, such as sagging upholstery or dashboard cracks.
This can again be a point of negotiation later on.
Adjust Your Mirrors
Last of all, make sure you adjust your mirrors before driving off.
It can be easy to forget, but is important to be able to drive safely.
Get the Most Out of the Test Drive
Driving Conditions
If possible, try to take your test drive through different traffic conditions.
You will learn more about the target vehicle by testing it out in tight suburban roads, as well as motorway conditions.
How does it handle in tight spaces? How well does it accelerate?
Are you game enough to also try a reverse park?
The more scenarios you can put the car through the more comfortable you can be that it suits your preferences.
Speeds
It can be important to get out onto a road where you can open the car up a bit.
Ever driven something that starts to shake at 100km/h? This is not something you want to learn later on when its too late!
Being able to do this depends on what roads are in the nearby area and you may need to discuss you route with the salesperson ahead of time to ensure you cover all you need.
Long Enough to Show Issues
If you only go for a 5 minute spin around the block you may not be getting the full experience.
A meaningful test drive should last at least 10 minutes.
Give yourself enough time to notice subtler issues like vibrations, braking performance, or lag in the transmission.
Conclusion
You can have some comfort that vehicles sold through a dealership will meet a reasonable mechanical standard, and that there are warranties on offer.
However, your test drive is as much about being comfortable in the vehicle and it being the right fit for you, as it is spotting issues.
The latter can just be a handy negotiation tool if you notice excessive wear and tear and think you can snag a bargain.
