road test

¹ American  

noun

1. a check of an automobile's performance in actual operation on the road.

2. an examination of a person's driving skill, conducted in normal traffic, especially as a requirement for an automobile driver's license.

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road-test ² American  

[rohd-test] / ˈroʊdˌtɛst /

verb (used with object)

1. to test (an automotive vehicle) under normal operating conditions on the road, as by a potential purchaser.

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road test British  

noun

1. a test to ensure that a vehicle is roadworthy, esp after repair or servicing, by driving it on roads

2. a test of something in actual use

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verb

1. to test (a vehicle) in this way

2. to test (something) in a real and appropriate context

Etymology

Origin of road test

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

The Rams will rack up nearly 35,000 miles road trip miles this season, with their first big road test coming in Week 3 against the Super Bowl champion Eagles.

From Los Angeles Times • May 14, 2025

In this study, researchers examined the ability of the VDA, delivered at the time of the licensing road test, to predict crash risk in the first year after obtaining licensure in the state of Ohio.

From Science Daily • Oct. 16, 2023

TEMPE, Ariz. — Southern California stumbled through its first road test, laboring long enough to allow a beleaguered and battered underdog to hang around.

From Washington Times • Sep. 24, 2023

In framing UW’s looming road test at Michigan State, Husky coaches point their players to a football metaphor.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 15, 2023

She was excited about her road test, and so happy with her bracelet.

From "Schooled" by Gordon Korman