Do I Need a Car to Take the Driving Test — or Can I Use Yours?TL;DR:

Travis Driving School
Oct 14
4 min read

You do need a car to take your driving test in Texas.

The car must meet specific DPS safety and insurance requirements.
If you don’t have one, Travis Driving School can provide a fully inspected, insured vehicle for your road test.
Using the school’s car can reduce stress and ensure your test goes smoothly.
Always check documentation (insurance, registration, inspection) before heading to the DPS.

Taking your driving test is one of the most exciting milestones in your journey toward independence — but there’s one big question many new drivers ask: Do I need my own car for the driving test? The good news is, you don’t necessarily have to bring your own. With Travis Driving School, you have options that make the process easier, safer, and far less stressful.

A Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) officer inspects a silver sedan driven by a student outside Travis Driving School. The officer checks the car’s windshield and registration while the student waits inside, creating a realistic scene of a pre-test inspection.
Alt Text: DPS officer inspecting a Travis Driving School car before a Texas driving test.

Understanding the Car Requirements for the Texas Driving Test

Before you even start your test, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will inspect your vehicle. This is to ensure it’s safe, roadworthy, and meets all legal standards.

Vehicle Inspection Checklist

During your test check-in, a DPS officer will typically confirm that your car has:

A valid inspection sticker and registration.
Working lights (headlights, brake lights, turn signals).
A functioning horn, windshield wipers, and seat belts.
Proper tire tread and inflation.
Current insurance under your name or as a covered driver.

If your car fails any of these checks, your test could be canceled. That’s why many students at Travis Driving Schoolchoose to use one of our certified vehicles to ensure there are no last-minute surprises.

(External Link:) Texas DPS – Official Road Test Requirements

Can You Use the Driving School’s Car for the Test?

Absolutely! Many students don’t own a car yet or share one with their family. That’s where Travis Driving Schoolsteps in. We offer the option to use one of our dual-brake vehicles for your DPS road test.

Benefits of Using Travis Driving School’s Car

✅ Pre-checked for DPS compliance – Our cars are always up-to-date on inspection, registration, and insurance.
✅ Dual-control safety features – Vehicles are equipped with instructor-side brakes for added peace of mind.
✅ Reduced anxiety – You’ll test in a car you’ve already practiced in.
✅ Convenience – Avoid the hassle of scheduling around family car use or borrowing a vehicle last minute.

(Internal Link:) Learn more about our Driving Test Vehicle Rental Options at Travis Driving School.

What If You Bring Your Own Car?

If you decide to bring your own vehicle, just make sure it meets DPS requirements.

Steps to Prepare Your Car

Check Your Inspection and Registration
- Both must be current and displayed properly.
Confirm Insurance Coverage
- You’ll need proof of insurance (paper or digital) showing your name or that you’re covered as a driver.
Test All Equipment
- Check your lights, horn, wipers, and brakes a day before your appointment.
Clean Your Car
- A clutter-free car helps you and the examiner focus better.

(External Link:) Texas Vehicle Inspection Checklist

Common Mistakes That Could Delay Your Test

Even if you’re ready to drive, your test can be delayed or canceled for reasons that have nothing to do with your driving skills. Travis Driving School instructors see it all the time.

Some of the most common issues include:

Expired registration or missing inspection sticker.
Damaged windshield obstructing the view.
Warning lights (like “check engine”) left unresolved.
No proof of insurance.

Using a Travis Driving School car ensures none of these issues stand in your way on test day.

What to Expect If You Use Travis Driving School’s Car

A young student driver and instructor stand beside a Travis Driving School car outside the DPS testing center. The instructor gives final tips as the student smiles confidently before the driving test.
Alt Text: Travis Driving School instructor preparing a student for their Texas road test.

When you choose to test using our vehicle, our staff takes care of the prep for you.

Here’s what happens:

We schedule and confirm your road test appointment.
Our instructor meets you at the DPS location with the vehicle ready to go.
You take your test using our inspected, insured car.
Once you pass, we help you understand the next steps to get your Texas driver’s license.

(Internal Link:) Explore our Road Test Packages and find out how to reserve your test date through Travis Driving School.

Why It’s Worth Using the School’s Vehicle

While it’s technically possible to bring your own car, using Travis Driving School’s car gives you one major advantage: confidence. You’ll be driving a vehicle you’ve trained in, supported by professionals who know exactly what DPS examiners look for.

Plus, if any issue arises before your test, our team is right there to handle it — saving you from rescheduling or extra fees.

(External Link:) Learn more about the Texas Driving Test process

Final Thoughts: Set Yourself Up for Success

Getting your driver’s license is a huge milestone — and preparation makes all the difference. Whether you bring your own car or choose to use a Travis Driving School vehicle, make sure your vehicle is safe, legal, and test-ready.

If you want a stress-free experience with no last-minute issues, using our cars is your best bet. Book your test with Travis Driving School today and take your next step toward becoming a confident, licensed driver in Texas.

(Internal Link:) Schedule your Texas Road Test with Travis Driving School now!