How To Make Sure Your Vehicle Is Fit To Be Used For Behind-The-Wheel Drive Test

You are ready to head to the California DMV to take your driving test after completing all your requirements. It is time to get your driver's license! While some rumors state the DMV Driving Test Inspector will try to trick you into failing the test, we have stated that is not the case. Before the test begins, there will be a pre-drive checklist done by the inspector to make sure your vehicle is fit to be used for the behind-the-wheel test. Find out what is on that checklist by following along below!

Documents To Remember

You don't want to forget any documents needed at the DMV, so check out that list here. Since you will be completing your driving test while at the DMV, you will need to bring in proof of insurance and proof of registration for the vehicle you will be using for that driving test. Also, know where these documents are in the car in case you are asked to provide them during your test. You should make sure the tags and insurance are up-to-date on the vehicle, as well as the front plate is affixed and there is no blackout tint on the windows.

Pre-Drive Checklist

Once inside the vehicle, the DMV examiner will ask you to locate and/or demonstrate the vehicle and driver safety items listed below. If any items in the Pre-Drive Checklist (items 1-8 or 15-17) do not pass the criteria requirement on your vehicle, which is known as a "mechanical failure," you will need to reschedule your driving test.

While the DMV examiner is going through this checklist, if you cannot locate and/or demonstrate the operation of four or more items from Items 9-14, then your driving test will be marked as "unsatisfactory" (failure). If there is inclement weather present, you must be able to demonstrate that items 11-14 work properly or the driving test will be rescheduled.

According to the California DMV website, these are the requirements for each Pre-Drive Checklist item:

1. Driver Window: The driver-side window must be able to open. If it is closed, you will be asked to open the window.
2. Windshield: You and the examiner must have a full, unobstructed field of view provided by the windshield.
3. Rear-View Mirrors: The vehicle must have at least two mirrors. One of the mirrors must be located outside the vehicle on the left side. The second mirror can be located outside of the vehicle on the right side or inside the vehicle in the center. These mirrors must be secure, unbroken, and provide clear visibility.
4. Turn Signals: The right and left turn signals on both the front and back of the vehicle must be working.
5. Brake Lights: Both brake lights on the back of the vehicle must be working.
6. Tires: Each tire must have 1/32-inch tread depth in any two adjacent grooves. Also, the vehicle cannot have any bald tires.
7. Foot Brake: You must have at least one inch of clearance between the brake pedal and the floorboard when the pedal is pushed.
8. Horn: Your horn must be designed for the vehicle and in proper working condition. It must also be loud enough to hear from a distance of at least 200 feet. The horn cannot be a bicycle horn.
9. Emergency Brake (Parking Brake): You must be able to locate and demonstrate how to use the emergency brake (set and release).
10. Arm Signals: You must be able to show the DMV examiner arm signals for a left turn, right turn, slowing down, and stopping.
11. Windshield Wipers: You must be able to locate the windshield wiper switch and/or control wipers.
12. Defroster: You must be able to locate the front windshield defroster button.
13. Emergency Flasher (Hazard Lights): You have to correctly locate the emergency flasher switch/button if the warning vehicle is equipped with emergency flashers.
14. Headlights: You need to correctly locate the headlight switch.
15. Passenger Door: The door on the front passenger side must open and close properly.
16. Glove Box: The door to the glove box must securely close.
17. Seat Belts (Safety Belts): All vehicles that are designed with seat belts must have seat belts for both you and the driving test inspector. The seat belts must work properly and be used by the individuals in the car.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our friendly support staff. If you want to start your driver's training journey with Coastline Academy, make sure to sign up for Drivers Ed and book your driving lesson today.