CarInsurance.com Insights
- You can usually use someone else’s car for a driving test, but the vehicle must be insured, registered and street-legal.
- The owner’s insurance policy typically covers the vehicle during the test, since coverage follows the car, not the driver.
- Most DMVs require proof of insurance and registration at the time of your driving test — not having these can result in a canceled appointment.
- You do not need to be listed on the insurance policy as long as the car’s coverage is active and you’re driving with permission.
- The car must pass a safety inspection, including working signals, brakes, mirrors and no dashboard warning lights.
In most states you can take a driving test in someone else’s car — as long as the vehicle is properly insured, registered and meets your state’s road safety requirements.
DMV examiners will not allow the test to begin unless the car passes a basic inspection and you provide proof of active insurance coverage.
Who needs to be insured — you or the car owner?
Auto insurance generally follows the vehicle, not the driver. That means if you use a borrowed car, the owner’s policy typically provides coverage during your driving test.
You don’t need your own insurance policy to take the test, and you don’t need to be listed on the vehicle’s policy. However, you must have the owner’s permission to use the car.
What proof do you need at the DMV?
Most DMVs require:
- Proof of valid insurance (ID card, declaration page or digital proof accepted in many states)
- Current vehicle registration
- Driver’s permit or learner’s license
- Appointment confirmation (in states that require one)
Some states also check that the name on the insurance matches the registered owner. If there’s a mismatch or lapse in coverage, your test may be canceled.
What condition must the car be in to pass inspection?
To pass the pre-test inspection, the vehicle must be:
- Properly registered and street-legal
- Equipped with functioning brake lights, turn signals, mirrors, seatbelts and horn
- Free of dashboard warning lights (e.g., check engine or ABS)
- Clean enough for the examiner to safely conduct the test
DMVs can and do reject vehicles that don’t meet these standards — even if the driver is ready and the documents are in order.
Speak with a friendly agent and get your quote in minutes!
Are driving tests allowed in rental cars or driving-school vehicles?
Some states allow driving tests in rental vehicles or driving school cars, but with conditions:
- Rental cars: The person renting must usually be present and insurance coverage must extend to the test-taker.
- Driving school cars: These are typically pre-approved and insured for instructional use, making them a reliable choice for testing.
Always check your state’s DMV rules before relying on either option.
Frequently Asked Questions: Driving tests in borrowed cars
Can I take my driving test in my parents’ or friend’s car?
Yes, as long as the vehicle is insured, registered and passes the DMV’s safety inspection. The car owner doesn’t need to be present unless required by your local DMV.
Do I need to be listed on the insurance to take the test?
No. If the car’s insurance is valid and you have permission to use the vehicle, you should be covered for the driving test.
What happens if I show up with no insurance or expired registration?
The DMV will cancel or postpone your test. You’ll likely need to reschedule and pay a rebooking fee.
Can I use a rental car for my driving test?
In some states, yes — but only if the rental agreement and insurance extend coverage to the test-taker. Check with both the DMV and rental agency in advance. Age limits typically apply to rental car agreements, so keep that in mind (in most states, rental companies require renters to be anywhere from age 20 to 25).
Will using someone else’s car affect their insurance rates?
Not unless an accident occurs. Even then, the incident would be tied to the vehicle owner’s policy, not the driver’s test attempt itself.
Still have a question? Ask our experts
Get advice from an experienced insurance professional. Our experts will help you navigate your insurance questions with clarity and confidence.
Browse all FAQs
