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Vehicle Test Driver Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Uzurv

Test Automation Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$105K - $115K/yr

... connect drivers, operating their own vehicles and providers operating wheelchair-accessible ... As Test Automation Engineer, you will be designing, developing, and maintaining automated testing ...

Uzurv

Test Automation Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$45.75 - $60.25/hr

... connect drivers, operating their own vehicles and providers operating wheelchair-accessible ... As Test Automation Engineer, you will be designing, developing, and maintaining automated testing ...

Uzurv

Test Automation Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$45.75 - $60.25/hr

... connect drivers, operating their own vehicles and providers operating wheelchair-accessible ... As Test Automation Engineer, you will be designing, developing, and maintaining automated testing ...

HDT Global

Test Engineer - Robotics

Fredericksburg, VA

$90K - $115K/hr

At HDT, we build robotic arms and unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) with military-grade strength and ... Familiarity with shop tools (wrenches, drivers, cutting tools, etc.) * Familiarity with ...

Crash Champions

Autobody Mechanic

Lorton, VA · On-site

Test drive vehicles, test components and systems using equipment such as computerized diagnostic ... Must have valid driver's license. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds. Submit a Referral ...

Virginia Tech

UAS Test Site Research Operator

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

$16 - $19.75/hr

... vehicle, ability to work outside in environmental conditions for up to 10 hours, as well as the ... drivers license Due to restrictions from the funding agency, candidates must be a US Citizen ...

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Vehicle Test Driver information

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How much do vehicle test driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for vehicle test driver in Virginia is $18.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $19.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a vehicle test driver?

Vehicle test drivers are professionals who operate automobiles, trucks, or other vehicles in controlled or real-world environments to evaluate their performance, safety, and reliability. They follow specific test procedures and report on factors such as handling, braking, acceleration, and comfort. Their feedback helps manufacturers identify potential problems and improve vehicle design before products reach the market.

What does a vehicle test driver do?

As a vehicle test driver, you operate a vehicle and perform a test drive to check systems on a test track or open road. Your feedback helps assess safety factors, provide reports for fuel economy, and identify issues before production. You may work with a prototype, pre-production, or a finished vehicle and are often expected to inspect and review every part of the car, from tires to brakes to turn signals to engines. Your duties include completing scientifically designed tests and creating reports on your findings to improve the speed and safety of vehicles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a vehicle test driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Vehicle Test Driver, you need a valid driver’s license, strong driving skills, mechanical aptitude, and often a background in automotive technology or engineering. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, data logging systems, and vehicle testing protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, clear communication, and the ability to follow precise instructions are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate vehicle assessments, reliable data collection, and the safe execution of test procedures.

What challenges might I face as a vehicle test driver, and how can I prepare for them?

As a Vehicle Test Driver, you'll often encounter varying road conditions, tight schedules, and the need to meticulously document your observations. Adapting quickly to different vehicles and maintaining focus during long or repetitive test drives are common challenges. Strong communication skills are essential, as you'll regularly collaborate with engineers and technicians to relay performance feedback and safety concerns. Preparing by staying up to date on vehicle technologies and practicing defensive driving techniques can help you excel in this role.

What is the difference between Vehicle Test Driver vs Vehicle Quality Inspector?

AspectVehicle Test DriverVehicle Quality Inspector
Required CredentialsValid driver's license, driving experience, sometimes specialized trainingQuality control certifications, attention to detail, inspection training
Work EnvironmentTest tracks, manufacturing plants, vehicle testing facilitiesInspection stations, manufacturing lines, quality assurance labs
Employer & Industry UsageAutomotive manufacturers, testing agencies, R&D departmentsAutomotive plants, quality assurance companies, certification bodies

While both roles involve working with vehicles, Vehicle Test Drivers focus on driving and evaluating vehicle performance, whereas Vehicle Quality Inspectors concentrate on inspecting vehicles for defects and quality standards. The roles often overlap in automotive testing environments but serve different primary functions.

How much does a vehicle test driver earn?

Vehicle test drivers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of testing tasks. Some positions may offer additional compensation for overtime or specialized skills such as vehicle diagnostics or safety testing.

Is there a job where you test drive vehicles?

A vehicle test driver is a job that involves driving new or prototype vehicles to evaluate their performance, safety, and handling. These roles often require a valid driver's license, good driving skills, and sometimes specific knowledge of vehicle mechanics or safety standards. Test drivers typically work in controlled environments or on designated test tracks and may be employed by automakers, suppliers, or testing agencies.
More about Vehicle Test Driver jobs

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For Vehicle Test Driver jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Vehicle Test Driver jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Vehicle Test Driver jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Vehicle Test Driver jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Vehicle Test Driver job openings:

Vehicle Test Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vehicle Test Driver job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,466 per year, or $19 per hour.

State Vehicle Inspector

Virginia Beach, VA

Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers
See more jobs at Express Oil Change & Tire Engineersexternal

$16.25 - $21/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers is the pre-eminent automotive maintenance provider in the nation with over 350 locations across 21 states, leading our industry through excellence, innovation, and growth. Don't let our name fool you, in addition to our fast oil change bays, our locations can be your one-stop shop with certified technicians providing a variety of mechanical services, as well as tire services.

Job Description

The State Inspector is responsible for examining motor vehicles to ensure vehicles operating on state highways meet all requirements established by the state's department of motor vehicles. These inspections should be completed in a quick, yet thorough manner for customers in a professional and efficient manner. This position will adhere to and promote the Company mission while operating within the confines of the Company's core values and contributing to the success of their functional team.

Primary Responsibilities include (but are not limited to):

  • Inspect automotive vehicles to ensure compliance to emission standards and governmental regulations
  • Inspect accessories, air lines and electrical circuits
  • Check for damage, broken headlights, leaks and faulty blinkers
  • Test vehicle for wear-and-tear damage
  • Inspect and assess the condition of all of the vehicle's essential mechanical systems and components
  • Check for improper adjustment
  • Approve or deny vehicular inspection and issue inspection stickers
  • Advise service consultant/technicians for additional work and suggest improvements to vehicle that fails inspection
  • Keep records of vehicles inspected
  • Check for illegal equipment installed on vehicle
  • Check preventive maintenance programs
  • Perform multi-point inspection
  • Change oil, inspect fluid levels of power steering reservoir and transmission
  • Inspect belts, hoses and wiper blades
  • Check air pressure of all tires
  • Maintain a safe, clean and organized work area
Qualifications

We are looking for:

  • Current and valid license as a State Vehicle Inspector 
  • Valid driver's license
  • Knowledge in automotive repair and maintenance 
  • Ability to read and comprehend written instructions and information
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment drug test and background screen
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills
  • Customer-focused attitude with ability to work well in a team environment
  • Willingness to work Saturdays 
Additional Information

All information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Physical Requirements:

  • Prolonged periods of standing, stooping, and bending
  • At time, exerting 50 - 100 lbs of force occasionally and/or 10 - 25 lbs of force frequently and/or greater than 10 lbs of force constantly to move objects
  • Requires working at a production rate pace entailing the constant pushing and/or pulling of materials

By completing this application, you are agreeing that you are able to meet the physical requirements listed for this role. 

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