What Do You Need to Test Drive a Car at a Dealership?

When you’re considering buying a car, whether it’s new or used, one of the most important steps in the process is the test drive.

It’s your chance to get a feel for the vehicle, see how it handles, and make sure it suits your needs.

But before you jump in the driver’s seat, there are a few things you need to know.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to bring and what to expect when test driving a car at a dealership.

Why Test Driving a Car is Important

Test driving isn’t just about checking if the car moves when you press the pedal – it’s your opportunity to experience the vehicle first-hand.

Even the sleekest car on paper might not feel right when you’re actually behind the wheel.

How does it handle tight corners? Is the seating comfortable for longer journeys? Are the controls intuitive, or will you find yourself fumbling with buttons while driving?

The test drive is also your chance to spot any potential issues, especially if you’re buying a used car.

If you’re concerned about getting a car that isn’t as promised, be sure to check out our page on what to do if a dealership sells you a faulty car in the UK for peace of mind.

Documents You Need to Bring to Test Drive a Car

Before heading to the dealership, make sure you’ve got everything you need.

Most dealerships will have specific requirements, and it’s best to be prepared to avoid any hiccups.

Driving Licence

The most important thing you’ll need is a valid driving licence.

Dealerships require this to ensure you are legally allowed to drive, and they will often take a photocopy before handing over the keys.

Make sure your licence is up to date, and if you’ve recently moved, ensure your address matches the one on your licence.

If you’re still learning or have a provisional licence, you may face some restrictions.

Many dealerships prefer you to have a full licence, although some may allow learners to test drive as long as a fully licenced adult accompanies them.

It’s always best to check ahead of time to avoid disappointment.

Proof of Insurance (If Required)

While not all dealerships require it, some may ask for proof of insurance, especially if you’re test driving a high-end vehicle.

Dealerships typically have insurance that covers you during a test drive, but it’s worth asking about this beforehand.

If you’re expected to provide your own, make sure you’ve got your insurance documents handy.

Not sure if you’ll need it? Read more on what insurance group a Toyota Yaris Hybrid falls into to get an idea of what you might be looking at.

Dealership Policies on Age and Experience

Every dealership has its own policies regarding who can test drive their cars.

Here are a couple of things you might encounter:

Minimum Age Requirement

In many cases, dealerships require test drivers to be at least 21 years old, although some may allow younger drivers, particularly for cheaper or used models.

If you’re under 25, it’s worth checking the dealership’s policy in advance, as some may refuse a test drive or ask for additional documentation.

Driving Experience

While most dealerships won’t ask for a specific number of years of experience, some may prefer drivers who’ve been on the road for a while.

New drivers might have to go through a few extra checks before they’re allowed to take a car out for a spin.

What to Expect During the Test Drive

So, you’ve got your documents ready, and you’re at the dealership.

Here’s what you can expect once you’re there.

Dealership Staff Supervision

In most cases, a dealership employee will accompany you on your test drive.

They’ll sit in the passenger seat, offering advice on where to drive and answering any questions you might have about the car.

Don’t be shy – this is your opportunity to learn as much as possible.

Duration of the Test Drive

The typical test drive lasts between 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the dealership and the car you’re driving.

Some dealerships may allow you to take the car for longer, particularly if you’re seriously considering buying it.

Don’t feel rushed – use the time to get a good feel for the vehicle.

The Route

The dealership will usually have a pre-determined route for you to follow.

This might include a mix of city streets, suburban roads, and perhaps even a brief stint on the motorway.

Pay attention to how the car handles in different conditions – from stop-start traffic to higher speeds.

Can You Test Drive a Car Without a Licence?

You might be wondering if it’s possible to test drive a car without a licence.

Unfortunately, the answer is almost always no.

A valid driving licence is essential, as dealerships need to ensure that you’re legally allowed to drive the vehicle.

However, there are a few workarounds.

If you don’t have a licence but are serious about buying a car, you could ask a friend or family member with a full licence to do the test drive while you ride along.

Some dealerships also offer virtual test drives, where you can experience the vehicle from the comfort of your home via video.

What Happens If There’s an Accident During the Test Drive?

Accidents can happen, even during a short test drive.

If you’re worried about this, it’s a good idea to ask the dealership about their insurance policy.

Dealership Insurance

Most dealerships have insurance that covers test drives, so if something goes wrong, you’re unlikely to be left footing the bill.

However, it’s worth clarifying the details before you drive off.

Some dealerships may hold you responsible for minor damages, while others will cover everything.

Liability and Costs

In the unlikely event that you cause an accident during the test drive, you could be liable for some of the costs.

It’s important to understand the dealership’s policies before you drive, so make sure to ask what would happen in the event of an accident.

Tips for a Successful Test Drive

Once you’re out on the road, it’s important to make the most of your test drive.

Here are a few tips to ensure you get the best possible experience:

Prepare Questions

Before you head to the dealership, think about any questions you might have.

Whether it’s about fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, or the car’s technology, now is the time to get those answers.

Want to learn more about what goes into maintaining a car at a dealership? Check out our guide on how long it takes to service a car at a dealership for helpful insights.

Test Different Driving Conditions

If possible, try to experience the car in a variety of settings.

How does it perform in stop-start traffic?

How does it handle at higher speeds on the motorway?

Make sure you test it in as many conditions as possible to get a complete picture.

Pay Attention to Comfort and Features

Test drives aren’t just about how the car performs – they’re also about how it feels.

Is the seat comfortable for long drives?

Is the visibility good?

Do the tech features work as expected?

Don’t be afraid to take your time and get a real feel for the car.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need Insurance to Test Drive a Car?

In most cases, the dealership’s insurance will cover you during a test drive.

However, it’s always worth double-checking, especially if you’re test driving a more expensive vehicle.

Can I Test Drive a Car Without Buying?

Yes, you can test drive a car without committing to buying it.

Dealerships expect customers to test drive several cars before making a decision, so don’t feel pressured into purchasing after your test drive.

Do I Need to Schedule a Test Drive in Advance?

While some dealerships allow walk-ins, it’s often better to book a test drive in advance.

This ensures that the car you’re interested in is available and saves you from waiting around.

Conclusion

Test driving a car is an exciting step in the car-buying process, but it’s important to be prepared.

Make sure you’ve got your documents in order know what to expect, and take full advantage of your time behind the wheel.

Are you looking to buy a new used car? Contact us today and we can help you!