How to Get a Test Driving Job

1. Learn all there is to know about the mechanical workings of automobiles. You can start with an automotive trade school or technical college, but a mechanical engineering degree can give you an edge.
2. Associate with racing hobbyists, including car and motorcycle racing clubs while you're getting an education. Enroll in classes, exercises and endurance tests to gain experience driving in all types of weather and on difficult terrains. Become a student of the go-cart; you’ll improve your driving skills and have fun.
3. Attend high performance driving schools in the U.S. and, if possible, in Europe once your driving skills have progressed as far as possible on race tracks used by amateur drivers. These are pricey experiences but there’s no substitute if you want to learn to drive everything from stock cars to formula cars on professional tracks while top-notch instructors critique your every turn.
4. Look where the jobs are. Companies across the U.S. and Europe regularly advertise for test drivers, but you may have to travel to interview. Living in Detroit helps. Being willing to relocate for a test-driving job helps more. Visit the websites of multiple car manufacturers and drill down into each site to find the "help wanted" link.
5. Write directly to the corporate headquarters of manufacturers like Porsche, Mercedes Benz, Toyota, Ford, Chevrolet and others. Put together a marketing package designed to sell your skills and training. Structure a resume to emphasize such attributes as your education, cross-country motocross driving experiences, racing competitions, car club membership and mechanical expertise.
6. Add defensive driving classes to your skills set. These high profile training venues for men and women interested in driving politicians, celebrities and prominent leaders from place to place are growing. You’ll learn evasion tactics and participate in high-speed drills. This training will position you for a job in high security work and you’ll earn a healthy income.
7. Stay in the loop. Read “Car and Driver,” “Motor Trend” and other automotive publications to stay on top of trends, new designs and technology. Build a library of car maker's literature. These publications are loaded with information that will keep you informed on new product introductions and innovations.