Requirements for a test drive
Before the dealership allows you to operate their vehicle, you must provide a valid driver's license. The salesperson will make a photocopy of your license for their security records. This is a non-negotiable requirement enforced by the dealership's insurance provider.
You must also be of a certain age, typically 18 or older, to test drive a vehicle. If you are a younger driver, a parent or legal guardian may need to accompany you or sign a liability waiver, depending on the specific dealership's policies.
You should bring your current auto insurance information. While the dealership's insurance generally covers the vehicle during a test drive, they may ask to verify that you carry an active policy, especially for high-performance or luxury vehicles.
The test drive experience
During the test drive, the salesperson will sit in the passenger seat. They are required to accompany you to answer questions, provide directions, and ensure the safety of the vehicle. You cannot take the vehicle alone.
The route is typically predetermined by the dealership. It usually involves a mix of local roads to test stop-and-go driving and a short stretch of highway to evaluate acceleration and wind noise. If you have specific driving conditions you want to test, ask the salesperson if they can accommodate a slightly altered route.
Use this time to evaluate the car objectively. Check the visibility from the driver's seat, test the braking responsiveness, and listen for any unusual sounds from the engine or suspension. The test drive is your practical evaluation of the vehicle.
Evaluating features and comfort
Beyond driving dynamics, the test drive is the time to evaluate the interior features. Test the air conditioning system, adjust the seats to ensure long-term comfort, and interact with the infotainment screen to see if it is intuitive.
If the vehicle has advanced safety features like lane departure warning or adaptive cruise control, ask the salesperson to explain how to engage them safely during the drive. Understanding these systems is important for modern vehicles.
If you are not satisfied with how the car drives or feels, you are under no obligation to proceed with the purchase. The purpose of the test drive is precisely to discover if the vehicle is the right fit for you.