What to Bring to a Dealership for a Test Drive

What Should You Bring to a Dealership for a Test Drive?

You do not need to pack a folder full of paperwork just to see how a car drives. A few basics should cover the test drive itself.

Required for the test drive:

• Valid driver's license: The dealership will need to verify that you are legally allowed to drive before handing over the keys.

• Proof of insurance: This may not be required for every test drive, but it is smart to have available. Individual dealership requirements can vary, especially for longer test drives.

If you are only comparing cars, that may be all you need. If there is a chance you will buy the vehicle before you leave, bringing a few additional items can save you a trip home.

What Should You Bring If You Might Buy the Car?

You do not have to decide in advance that you are buying. But if you have found the right vehicle and want the option to move forward, come prepared.

If you plan to finance:

• Financing information: Have the personal, employment, income, and financial information you may need for a credit application.

• Income documents if requested: A lender may ask for documentation to verify information on your application. Requirements can vary, so ask the dealership or lender beforehand if you are unsure.

• Preapproval information: If you arranged financing with a bank, credit union, or another lender before shopping, bring the details of that offer.

• Down payment method: Know how you plan to make your down payment and check whether the dealership has any payment method or transaction limits.

A financing preapproval is not required to visit a dealership. It simply gives you another financing option to compare with any terms available through the dealership.

What Should You Bring If You Have a Trade In?

Planning to trade your current vehicle? Bring the paperwork that can help the dealership review the trade and, if you decide to buy, complete the transaction.

For a trade in, bring:

• Vehicle registration

• Vehicle title, if you hold it

• Loan or lender information if you still owe money on the vehicle

• All keys and key fobs you have for the vehicle

If there is a loan on your trade, not having the title in hand is normal. The dealership can tell you what information it needs to verify the payoff and complete the trade.

What Else Is Helpful to Bring?

A few optional items can make it easier to keep the visit focused on what matters to you.

Helpful items include:

• Another dealership's written quote: If you are comparing offers, bring the details so you can make an accurate comparison. See our guide to getting quotes from multiple dealerships before visiting.

• Your must-have list: Write down the features, trim, seating, cargo space, technology, or other details that matter most to you.

• Questions for the dealer: Save them in your phone so you do not forget something once you are at the dealership.

• Vehicle information: Keep the listing, VIN, stock number, or other identifying information handy so everyone is talking about the same car.

Before leaving home, it is also worth confirming the vehicle is still available. Inventory can change, and a quick confirmation can make the visit more productive.

Quick Dealership Test Drive Checklist

Before you head out, run through this list:

For the test drive:

• Valid driver's license

• Proof of insurance, if requested

If you may buy or finance:

• Financing or pre-approval information

• Income documentation if requested

• Down payment method

If you have a trade-in:

• Registration

• Title, if available

• Loan or payoff information

• Keys and key fobs

Helpful extras:

• Written dealership quotes

• Must-have features

• Questions for the dealer

• Vehicle listing or VIN

Once you are behind the wheel, use our test drive checklist to make sure you are paying attention to the vehicle itself, not just whether you like the way it looks.

Final Thoughts

For a basic dealership test drive, your driver's license is the big one. Bringing proof of insurance is also a good idea in case the dealership requests it.

If you might buy the car that day, a little extra preparation can make the rest of the visit easier. Bring the information you may need for financing, your payment method, and any trade in paperwork that applies to you. If you are not sure what a particular dealership requires, call or message before your visit and ask.