Show Me, Tell Me Questions

What are Show Me, Tell Me Questions?

During your practical driving test, the examiner will ask you two vehicle safety questions. One will be a "tell me" question asked before you start driving, and one will be a "show me" question asked while you're driving.

Important Points:

You will receive only one minor driving fault if you get one or both questions wrong.
These questions test your knowledge of basic vehicle safety and maintenance.
It is crucial to know how to perform these checks confidently.

Tell Me Questions

These questions are asked at the start of your test. You need to **explain** how you would perform a specific safety check.

Brakes

Question: Tell me how you'd check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.

Answer: The brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Test them as you set off. The vehicle should not pull to one side.

Tyres

Question: Tell me how you'd check the tyres to ensure they have sufficient tread depth and are in a safe condition.

Answer: Check for any cuts or bulges. Ensure there is at least 1.6mm of tread depth across the central three-quarters of the tyre's breadth and around the entire circumference.

Steering

Question: Tell me how you'd check the power-assisted steering is working before starting a journey.

Answer: If the steering feels heavy, the system may not be working. A light but noticeable movement on the steering wheel should occur as the engine starts. Or, an immediate indication of function will be felt when turning the wheel slightly after moving off.

Headlights & Tail Lights

Question: Tell me how you'd check that the headlights and tail lights are working. You don't need to exit the vehicle.

Answer: I would operate the switch (turning on the ignition if necessary) and then walk around the vehicle to check all lights are working.

Engine Fluids

Question: Open the bonnet and tell me how you'd check that the engine has sufficient oil.

Answer: I would identify the dipstick, remove it, wipe it clean, reinsert, and then check the oil level against the minimum and maximum markers.

Show Me Questions

These questions are asked while you are driving. You must **demonstrate** how to operate a specific control safely.

Windscreen Washers

Question: When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the front windscreen?

Answer: Operate the appropriate control to wash and wipe the windscreen (turning the ignition on if necessary).

Dipped Headlights

Question: When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd switch on your dipped headlights?

Answer: Operate the correct switch (turning on the ignition if necessary). You can confirm with the examiner that the lights are on if in doubt.

Rear Demister

Question: When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd set the rear demister?

Answer: Locate and operate the switch for the rear demister (turning on the ignition and engine if necessary).

Horn

Question: When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd operate the horn?

Answer: First, ensure it is safe to sound the horn, then press the appropriate area on the steering wheel or control.

How to Prepare

Practice Makes Perfect

Regularly practice these checks with your instructor.
Familiarize yourself with your car's controls.
Make these checks a part of your routine before every lesson.

Test Day Tips

Stay calm and listen carefully to the question.
For "show me" questions, only demonstrate when it is safe to do so.
Remember, the goal is to show a basic understanding of vehicle safety.

Pro Tip:

Your instructor will help you practice these questions during your lessons, ensuring you are fully prepared and confident on test day.