Just started a new role in the public sector and wondering if you can still get car finance? You're not alone.
Many government employees — from teachers to admin officers — ask whether being on probation impacts their chances of getting approved for a car loan.
The short answer? Yes, it’s possible — but not guaranteed.
Here's what lenders look for, and how to improve your odds if you're still within your probation period.
✅ What Does “Probation” Mean in the Eyes of a Lender?
In most government jobs, probation is a standard employment period (usually 3 to 6 months) where either party can end the contract without notice. While you're still paid normally and treated like a full employee, lenders see this as a potential risk, because your job isn't officially confirmed yet.
That said, many public sector workers still get approved — especially if other parts of their profile are strong.
📊 Approval Likelihood While on Probation
| Situation | Lender View | Approval Chance |
|---|---|---|
| < 3 months into probation | Risky, likely to be declined | Low |
| 3+ months into probation + good credit | Considered with caution | Moderate |
| Letter confirming employment continuation | Strong supporting doc | Moderate to High |
| Role is same industry as previous job | Stability seen through history | High |
| Past government employment record | Added trust factor | High |
📌 If your role is “ongoing” or “expected to continue,” a lender may be more flexible — especially with supporting documents.
💡 Tips to Improve Your Chances on Probation
If you’re on probation and want to get approved for a car loan, here’s what you can do:
- ✅ Provide a letter from HR or your manager stating your job is ongoing
- ✅ Highlight prior experience in the public sector or same industry
- ✅ Keep other debts to a minimum
- ✅ Maintain a clean credit history
- ✅ Consider a smaller loan amount or larger deposit
- ✅ Use a broker who knows how to position probationary applicants
Even if a big bank says no, a good broker may have access to lenders who are more flexible with public sector employees.
🔗 Need Help While on Probation?
We work with finance brokers who understand government employment contracts — including the realities of probation periods.
👉 Explore your options here for car finance as a government or corporate employee
🚀 Final Thoughts
Yes — you can get a car loan while on probation, especially if you work for the government. The key is to strengthen the rest of your application and work with a lender or broker who understands the stability behind public sector roles.
With the right guidance, probation doesn’t have to be a roadblock.
DISCLAIMER
The information provided on this website is general in nature only and has been prepared without considering your financial needs, circumstances and objectives and should NOT be construed as financial, taxation or legal advice. For more information, get in touch with our experienced partner brokers today.
DISCLAIMER
The information provided on this website is general in nature only and has been prepared without considering your financial needs, circumstances and objectives and should NOT be construed as financial, taxation or legal advice. For more information, get in touch with our experienced partner brokers today.
