California DMV · Checked against dmv.ca.gov on October 9, 2026
Can I use a rental car, Zipcar, Turo or a friend's car for the California drive test?
Yes, as long as the car has valid proof of insurance and registration and passes the examiner's pre-drive safety check. For a rental, your name must be on the rental contract, and the contract must not exclude behind-the-wheel drive tests. DMV's pages don't mention car-sharing services such as Zipcar or Turo by name, so check their terms first.
A friend's or family member's car
This is the most common choice. Bring the car's current registration and valid proof of insurance. It's sensible to confirm with the owner that their policy covers you as a permit holder; DMV's pages don't spell out whose name must be on the policy.
Rental cars
The handbook says your name must be listed on the rental contract, and the contract must not exclude behind-the-wheel drive tests. If you hold only a permit, check whether the rental company will list you on the contract at all; DMV's pages don't address this. Read the contract terms before test day.
Zipcar, Turo and other car-sharing
DMV doesn't address these services directly. The same logic applies: you need valid insurance and registration proof, and an agreement that doesn't exclude a DMV drive test. If the terms forbid it or your name isn't on the booking, expect problems at the office.
Whatever car you use, it must pass the check
The examiner checks the driver's window, windshield, two mirrors, brake lights, turn signals, tires (no donut spare), foot brake, horn and seat belts. If the car fails, the test is rescheduled. Features such as automated parallel parking aren't allowed during the test.
Getting there
With a permit you can't drive alone, even to the DMV office. A California-licensed driver who is at least 18 (25 if you're under 18) has to come with you.
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FAQ
Can I use a car with out-of-state plates?
DMV's test pages don't prohibit it. The car still needs valid registration and insurance proof and must pass the safety check.
Is an insurance card on my phone okay?
DMV's drive test pages only say valid proof of insurance. Bring a printed copy as a backup in case the examiner asks for paper.