Can i test drive cars at a dealership if i only have a permit?

Question

Can i test drive cars at a dealership if i only have a permit?

Answer 1

No. You have to be at least 18 with a valid permanent driver's license with your picture on it. The reason you must be at least 18 has more to do with insurance regulations than state or local laws. All dealers must obtain a  insurance bond covering the dealership, its employees and its inventory.

Because the liability coverage is the most expensive part of the bond, dealers can cut down on it by signing a waiver stating that they will not allow anyone 17 or younger to test drive a car. Or anyone who does not have a valid, picture driver's license.

Even if you're with your parents, you cannot test drive a car. Some sales people will skate that policy if it means making the deal. I know of one such guy that did. The 16 year old was with his mom. He made a left turn in front of an oncoming car. He, his mom and the salesman, as well as the two cocupants in the other car, were all badly injured. The salesman lost his license to sell and was held partially liable since he went against company policy. He was sued by the mom and the 16 year old.

The other occupants sued the dealership and won a hefty settlement. They also successfully sued the 16 year old's parents, since he was a minor. They lost their house. The dealership then sued the salesmen for his share of liability but he declared bankruptcy.

Because of this, it's not likely you'll ever be able to test drive a car until you're at least 18 with a valid picture driver's license. And I doubt any salesman would take a chance and break the rules.

Answer 2

You must have a valid full license to do so. They won't accept a permit as a substitute.

Answer 3

no