What In-car Technology Can be Used in the Driving Test?

Ever wondered if that fancy backup camera can actually help you during your driving test? Or if lane assist is allowed? With so much new tech in cars these days, it’s a common question — and a smart one to ask.

Knowing what’s allowed (and what’s not) can make a huge difference when it comes time to take your road test. Let’s break down exactly what in-car technology you can use, what you can’t, and how to use these tools the right way on test day.

Backup Cameras – Yes, But…

Backup cameras are now standard in most new cars. The good news? Yes, you can use them during your test. The catch? You can’t rely on them alone.

Here’s the deal:

• You’re still expected to check over your shoulder.
• Examiners want to see proper mirror use and full awareness.
• The camera is just a tool, not a replacement for observation.

So yes — go ahead and glance at that screen. But don’t forget your classic shoulder checks and mirror sweeps.

Blind Spot Monitors – Helpful, Not Required

Blind spot monitors can be a great aid while changing lanes or merging. These are typically the little warning lights on your mirrors or a beeping system when another vehicle is in your blind spot.

Can you use them? Absolutely. But again, they don’t replace proper technique.

Here’s what examiners want:

• Clear, intentional shoulder checks
• Mirror usage
• Confidence when changing lanes

If your car has blind spot alerts, great — just treat them as a bonus, not your primary strategy.

Lane Keep Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control – Nope!

Some newer vehicles come with lane-keeping technology or adaptive cruise control. These features help keep you in your lane or maintain a steady speed behind another car.

Sounds great, right? Not for the road test.

These features should be turned off.

Why? Because:

• They reduce the need for driver input.
• They don’t demonstrate your actual driving skills.
• The examiner needs to see you doing the work.

If your car has these features, check how to disable them before your test. It’s your skill behind the wheel that counts.

Parking Sensors – Use With Caution

Parking sensors are allowed, but again, they should only support your awareness — not replace it.

What’s okay:

• Hearing the beeps as you reverse
• Using the visual parking assist briefly

What’s not okay:

• Ignoring mirrors or not looking behind you
• Depending entirely on sensor feedback

Remember: parking sensors help you gauge distance, but your examiner wants to see smart, safe parking done by you.

Navigation Systems – Keep It Off

During your test, you’ll be told exactly where to go. So you won’t need (or be allowed) to use GPS.

Make sure:

• Any built-in navigation systems are turned off
• Your phone is silenced and out of sight
• You’re focused solely on the instructions from your examiner

This shows you can follow directions and adapt to unfamiliar routes — two key test components.

Dash Cams – Allowed, But Ignored

If your car has a dash cam, it’s fine to keep it running. Most examiners won’t ask you to remove it. But it won’t help (or hurt) your score.

Just be sure it:

• Doesn’t obstruct your view
• Doesn’t distract you or the examiner
• Isn’t something you’re touching or interacting with

It’s there for security, not support — so treat it like background noise.

Use Tech the Right Way

In-car technology is designed to help you drive safer. But during a driving test, it should be used as a backup, not a crutch. The focus is on your awareness, control, and ability to follow the rules of the road.

Want to boost your road test prep and learn more about driving test rules?

To prepare for G1 or G2 practice test in Ontario, study practice questions, review the rules of the road, and follow essential tips to boost your chances of success.

Also see: The Future Of Car Technology In 2025