What is the best practice for api testing?

Question

Python

there is a function

def is_car_exist(make, model):
    
    url = f'https://vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov/api/vehicles/GetModelsForMake/\
    {make.capitalize()}?format=json'
    data = requests.get(url).json()['Results']
    return any(model.capitalize() == car['Model_Name'] for car in data)

what is the best way to test the request itself to an external api???

Answer 1

This one - no way. At a minimum, you need to get rid of the hardcoded domain and put it in the config. Further options are possible:
1. Wiremock - creates a local server and responds to requests to it. That is, it "pretends to be" an external service for your program.
2. Unit tests. But for them, it is necessary to isolate calls to the external service and "close" them with an interface, instead of which the test implementation of the external service will be substituted.

Answer 2

Mockup requests to external resources