Can you take a test drive by yourself?

You can ask to test drive without the salesperson along: While some dealerships will require the presence of the salesperson in the car with you, many will permit you to do the drive on your own.

How long does a test drive last?

between 15 and 30 minutes
Expect the test drive to last between 15 and 30 minutes, including the salesperson’s time behind the wheel. Be prepared for the salesperson to ask if you’re ready to buy when you return to the dealership after the test drive.

Can you test drive a car you don’t plan on buying?

Originally Answered: How do you test drive a car without buying it? Go to the auto dealer and ask to test drive the car. They are usually very happy to let you test drive the car since they are hoping that you will purchase it. The auto dealer will want to ride along with you on your drive.

Can you bring a car to the dealership to test drive?

Still, some dealers will allow a potential buyer to bring the vehicle home, even if “home” is a longer distance away. In many cases, car dealers — especially new-car dealers — offer overnight test drives.

Why do car dealerships offer overnight test drives?

In many cases, car dealers — especially new-car dealers — offer overnight test drives. This may seem like a surprising practice, but dealers know that shoppers are more likely to buy a car once they’ve had it at home, where they’ll grow a little more comfortable with the idea of owning the car.

Why do car dealers ask for keys before test drive?

Before a test drive, the salesperson might ask for your car keys and/or your driver’s license “as security.” Then, when you return and want to leave without buying, the car keys or the license will go missing. “We don’t see it that much anymore,” Sutton told us, referring to abusive dealer tactics.

Do you need a license to test drive a car online?

“And I think the advent of ratings and reviews online . . . has contributed to that.” Yes, a wise dealership needs to determine that you have a valid driver’s license before allowing you to take a car out for a test spin, but they don’t need to take it from you and hold it as some sort of deposit.