Test Driver Salaries

Updated on Jan 08, 2025
Position
Salary

How much does a Test Driver make?

The average salary for a Test Driver is $70,150 per year in the US.

Test drivers earn a wide range of salaries based on their experience and specific roles. The average yearly salary for a test driver stands at around $70,150.


Entry-level positions usually start at about $32,000. As test drivers gain experience, their earnings can rise significantly. For example, those with a few years of experience might make around $39,091 to $46,182. Mid-level test drivers can earn between $53,273 and $67,455.


Highly skilled professionals in this field can enjoy salaries that exceed $81,636. The top earners, often with many years in the industry, can make as much as $110,000 or more. This variety in salaries shows that a career as a test driver can be rewarding and provides many opportunities for growth and advancement.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Test Driver?

Tucson, AZ stands out as the highest paying city for Test Drivers, offering an impressive average salary of $101,038. Following closely are Charleston, SC and Charlotte, NC, with salaries of $85,722 and $84,586, respectively. These cities provide excellent opportunities for Test Drivers looking to advance their careers while earning a competitive income.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Test Driver jobs, highlighting Tucson, AZ with the highest at $101,038 and Allentown, PA with the lowest at $75,532.
  1. Tucson, AZ
    Average Salary: $101,038
    Working as a vehicle tester in Tucson provides opportunities in a growing automotive sector. The city's warm climate allows for year-round testing, making it ideal for car manufacturers and innovators.
    Find Test Driver jobs in Tucson, AZ


  2. Charleston, SC
    Average Salary: $85,722
    Charleston boasts a vibrant automotive industry with companies focused on advanced vehicle technologies. Test driving in this beautiful city allows you to work for top firms while enjoying its rich culture and scenery.
    Find Test Driver jobs in Charleston, SC


  3. Charlotte, NC
    Average Salary: $84,586
    Charlotte is a hub for numerous major automotive companies, offering a dynamic environment for vehicle testing. The city's strategic location and robust job market create exciting prospects for drivers looking to excel in their careers.
    Find Test Driver jobs in Charlotte, NC


  4. Austin, TX
    Average Salary: $83,181
    Austin's tech-forward atmosphere attracts innovative automotive companies. As a vehicle tester in this lively city, you can experience testing cutting-edge vehicles while enjoying its famous music scene.
    Find Test Driver jobs in Austin, TX


  5. Philadelphia, PA
    Average Salary: $83,149
    Philadelphia combines rich history with a growing automotive industry. Working in vehicle testing here means engaging with leading companies while enjoying the vibrant urban life that the city has to offer.
    Find Test Driver jobs in Philadelphia, PA


  6. Raleigh, NC
    Average Salary: $83,053
    Raleigh, known for its tech landscape, is also making strides in the automotive sector. Test drivers in this city can expect a blend of innovation and research, making their work both impactful and rewarding.
    Find Test Driver jobs in Raleigh, NC


  7. San Antonio, TX
    Average Salary: $81,551
    San Antonio's diverse economy includes several automotive manufacturing firms. As a vehicle tester in this energetic city, you'll enjoy the mix of cultural experiences while contributing to the development of reliable vehicles.
    Find Test Driver jobs in San Antonio, TX


  8. Minneapolis, MN
    Average Salary: $79,242
    Minneapolis has a strong engineering presence, attracting automotive companies and design firms. Test drivers in this city play a crucial role in ensuring quality and safety for vehicles in diverse environments.
    Find Test Driver jobs in Minneapolis, MN


  9. Atlanta, GA
    Average Salary: $79,092
    Atlanta is a vibrant city with a thriving automotive sector that is on the rise. Working as a vehicle tester here allows you to connect with major companies while enjoying the rich culture and southern hospitality.
    Find Test Driver jobs in Atlanta, GA


  10. Allentown, PA
    Average Salary: $75,532
    Allentown's growing automotive scene offers exciting positions in vehicle testing. This city combines a small-town feel with the benefits of an emerging job market, making it a satisfying place for professionals.
    Find Test Driver jobs in Allentown, PA

What are the best companies a Test Driver can work for?

Quick Transport stands out as the highest paying company for Test Driver jobs, offering an impressive average salary of $93,600. Following closely behind are Tesla and Western Technologies, with average salaries of $66,941 and $65,315, respectively. These companies provide excellent opportunities for job seekers looking to earn competitive salaries in the automotive industry.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Test Driver jobs, highlighting Quick Transport with the highest at $93,600 and GameStop with the lowest at $41,983.
  1. Quick Transport
    Average Salary: $93,600
    Quick Transport hires Test Drivers to ensure their vehicles meet safety and performance standards. These positions are mainly based in urban areas where Quick Transport operates its fleet.


  2. Tesla
    Average Salary: $66,941
    At Tesla, Test Drivers play a key role in testing electric vehicles and software. The company primarily has positions available at its main plant in California and other locations across North America.


  3. Western Technologies
    Average Salary: $65,315
    Western Technologies offers Test Driver positions that focus on conducting performance tests on various vehicles. These jobs are based in several states, providing opportunities for travel.


  4. Mavis Discount Tire
    Average Salary: $63,137
    Test Drivers at Mavis Discount Tire help evaluate tire performance by testing vehicles in different conditions. They usually work at locations throughout the Northeast and Midwest.


  5. Roush Industries
    Average Salary: $59,586
    Roush Industries employs Test Drivers to perform evaluations on automotive products. The company has operations mainly in Michigan, where they focus on high-performance testing.


  6. Tires Etc
    Average Salary: $56,628
    Tires Etc provides Test Driver roles focused on assessing tire quality and durability. Openings are primarily available in various retail locations across the country.


  7. Eaton
    Average Salary: $48,838
    Eaton hires Test Drivers to assess electrical systems for vehicles. These positions often exist at their engineering facilities in several states, mainly in the Midwest.


  8. Goodwill TalentBridge
    Average Salary: $43,500
    Goodwill TalentBridge offers entry-level Test Driver positions where individuals learn vehicle testing processes. Jobs are available at various locations nationwide.


  9. ABB
    Average Salary: $43,447
    ABB employs Test Drivers to evaluate robotics and automation systems in vehicles. Their operations expand across many regions, especially in technology hubs.


  10. GameStop
    Average Salary: $41,983
    GameStop occasionally looks for Test Drivers to help review gaming simulation vehicles. These roles can be found primarily at their headquarters in Texas.

How to earn more as a Test Driver?

As a Test Driver, you can boost your earnings by considering a few key factors. Focus on these strategies to enhance your income:

  • Gain Experience: More experience often leads to higher pay. Work on a variety of vehicles to improve your skills.
  • Obtain Certifications: Certifications in automotive technology can make you stand out. These qualifications show your commitment and expertise.
  • Networking: Build connections in the automotive industry. Networking can provide job opportunities and valuable insights.
  • Specialize: Focus on specific types of vehicles or technologies. Specializing in electric or autonomous vehicles can lead to higher-paying roles.
  • Stay Informed: Keep up with industry trends and new technologies. Being knowledgeable can help you answer questions better and impress employers.

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Currently 100 Test Driver job openings, nationwide!

How's the job market for a Test Driver in the US?

Learn what a Test Driver does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Test Driver today.
Position
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Test Driver
100 Job Openings