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What are 'show me' and 'tell me' questions and how to prepare them for the practical driving test?
The DVSA examiner will ask you one 'tell me' question at the start of your test, before you start driving and one 'show me' question while you’re driving.
What is the different between show me and tell me question?
Show Me Questions:
These questions require you to physically demonstrate a specific action, such as operating a control or carrying out a safety check, while driving during the test.
Tell Me Questions:
These are verbal questions where you need to explain how you would perform a particular safety check or operation, typically asked at the start of the driving test or while the vehicle is stationary.
What if I can't answer the 'Show Me' and 'Tell Me' questions during my driving test?
If you answer one or both of the 'Show Me' or 'Tell Me' questions incorrectly, you will receive a single driving fault, which is considered a minor fault, but it does not automatically result in a test failure.
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However, while attempting to demonstrate the "Show Me" question, your driving becomes dangerous or potentially dangerous—for example, if you lose control of the vehicle or fail to observe the road properly—this can result in a test failure.
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It is advisable to thoroughly study and practice the 'Show Me' and 'Tell Me' questions before the driving test to increase your chances of providing accurate and confident responses. Being well-prepared will not only help you make a positive first impression to the examiner but also ensure that you have the necessary knowledge to maintain and operate a vehicle safely.
A4A students, please log in to our exclusive member-only page for helpful notes and tips on "show me" and "tell me" questions.
Show me questions
In the practical driving test, the 'show me' questions require you to demonstrate a specific action while driving. The examiner will ask you to perform a task, such as operating a control or showing how to carry out a safety check.
To prepare for the "Show Me" questions, it's important to thoroughly study and understand the various controls and safety checks of the vehicle. Practice performing the required actions in a safe and controlled environment, such as during driving lessons or with a knowledgeable supervisor.
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During the driving test, listen carefully to the examiner's instructions, maintain focus, and confidently carry out the requested task. It's important to perform the action safely while keeping proper control of the vehicle and observing the road conditions.
If you are unsure about any "Show Me" question or need clarification, don't hesitate to ask the examiner for further guidance before proceeding. Remember to stay calm, follow the instructions accurately, and demonstrate your competence in handling the specific tasks asked of you.
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Every car is different and your instructor should be teaching you how to do all these checks. These are the show me questions - you’ll do one of these while you’re driving.
Q1. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the rear windscreen?
Q2. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the front windscreen?
Q3. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d switch on your dipped headlights?
Q4. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d set the rear demister?
Q5. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d operate the horn?
Q6. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d demist the front windscreen?
Q7. When it’s safe to do so, can you show me how you’d open and close the side window?
Tell me questions
When answering a "Tell Me" question in the driving test, it's best to keep your response simple and concise. Here's a straightforward approach:
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Listen carefully to the question and make sure you understand it.
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Provide a direct answer without overcomplicating it.
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Be clear and confident in your response.
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Use concise language and avoid unnecessary details.
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If applicable, mention any specific actions or checks required.
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Keep your response focused on the question asked.
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Remember, the purpose of the "Tell Me" questions is to assess your basic knowledge of vehicle maintenance and safety. By providing a straightforward and concise answer, you demonstrate your understanding without overwhelming the examiner with excessive information.
2. Tell me how you’d check the power-assisted steering is working before starting a journey.
If the steering becomes heavy, the system may not be working properly. Before starting a journey, 2 simple checks can be made.
Gentle pressure on the steering wheel, maintained while the engine is started, should result in a slight but noticeable movement as the system begins to operate. Alternatively turning the steering wheel just after moving off will give an immediate indication that the power assistance is functioning.
3. Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash.
5. Tell me how you’d check the brake lights are working on this car.
Explain you’d operate the brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows or doors, or ask someone to help.
6. Tell me how you’d check that the headlights and tail lights are working. You don’t need to exit the vehicle.
Explain you’d operate the switch (turn on ignition if necessary), then walk round vehicle (as this is a ‘tell me’ question, you don’t need to physically check the lights).
7. Tell me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam and explain how you’d know the main beam is on.
Turn the ignition on, then turn on the dipped headlights and switch to the main beam. Check that the main beam warning light on the dashboard is on.
8. Tell me how you’d check the direction indicators are working. You don’t need to exit the vehicle.
Turn on the hazard warning lights, (you might need to turn the ignition on) then walk around the car to check the indicator are working. (as this is a ‘tell me’ question, you don’t need to physically check the lights)
9. Tell me how you’d switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you’d use it/them. You don’t need to exit the vehicle.
10. Tell me how you’d check the tyres to ensure that they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road.
You need to open the bonnet and tell the examiner how you’d do the check if you’re asked question 12, 13 or 14.
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Open the bonnet:
Locate the bonnet release lever inside the vehicle, usually located near the driver's side footwell. Pull the lever to release the bonnet, then go to the front of the vehicle and lift the bonnet upwards, using the provided handle or latch.
13. Open the bonnet and tell me how you’d check that the engine has sufficient engine coolant.
Check the coolant level by looking at the high and low level marks on the radiator header tank. If the levels are low - top it up with a water and anti-freeze mix, but only when the engine is cold.
*You could get a serious injury if you open the cap when the engine is hot.
Additional Information about 'tell me' questions
This additional information can help you understand and remember how to answer 'tell me' questions more easily, but these details are not required during the practical driving test
Question 1:
Brakes should not feel spongy or slack:
When you press the brake pedal, it should feel firm and responsive. If the pedal feels spongy or slack, meaning it goes down too easily or lacks resistance, it could indicate a problem with the brake system. This can be caused by air in the brake lines or worn brake components. A firm and responsive brake pedal ensures effective braking performance.
Brakes should be tested as you set off:
Before you start driving, perform a brake test to ensure they are functioning properly. While moving slowly and in a safe area, gently apply the brakes. Observe how the vehicle responds and if the brakes engage smoothly without any unusual noises or vibrations. The brakes should provide consistent and predictable stopping power.
Vehicle should not pull to one side:
As you perform the brake test mentioned above, pay attention to the vehicle's behavior. When you apply the brakes, the vehicle should decelerate evenly and in a straight line. It should not pull to one side. If the vehicle pulls to one side, it could indicate an issue with the braking system, such as uneven brake pad wear, brake fluid imbalance, or alignment problems. Proper brake function ensures stability and control during braking maneuvers.
Question 3:
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This ensures that the head restraint provides adequate support and protection to your head and neck in the event of a crash.
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The rigid part of the head restraint is at least as high as the eye or top of the ears.
Question 4:
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During the vehicle's start up, the warning light should illuminate briefly along with other dashboard lights to perform a self-check. If the ABS warning light remains lit or illuminates while driving, it indicates a fault or malfunction within the ABS system.
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Question 9:
When to use rear fog lights:
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Rear fog lights are used in situations of seriously reduced visibility, typically when you cannot see for more than 100 meters ahead. They are designed to increase your vehicle's visibility to other drivers in adverse weather conditions such as dense fog, heavy rain, or snowstorms.
Using rear fog lights in appropriate situations helps to improve safety by making your vehicle more visible to drivers approaching from behind. It reduces the risk of rear-end collisions and allows other drivers to better judge the distance and position of your vehicle in poor visibility conditions.
However, it's important to note that rear fog lights should be used judiciously and turned off when visibility improves, as they can be dazzling to drivers following closely in normal driving conditions.
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Rear fog light warning light
Front fog light warning light
visibility is seriously reduced (100 metres or less)
Question 10:
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No cuts and bulges:
When inspecting your tyres, check the sidewalls for any cuts, bulges, or cracks. Cuts refer to any visible tears or gashes on the tyre's sidewall. Bulges are areas where the tyre appears to be protruding or swelling outward. These issues can weaken the tyre's structure and increase the risk of a blowout while driving.
1.6mm of tread depth:
Tread depth refers to the measurement of the grooves on the surface of the tyre. The legal minimum tread depth requirement is 1.6mm. To ensure compliance, the tread depth should be at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters (75%) of the breadth of the tyre's width. This measurement should also be consistent around the entire outer circumference of the tyre.
Measuring tread depth:
You can use a tread depth gauge to measure the depth of the tread grooves. Insert the gauge into the main grooves of the tyre and take the reading. Ensure that the measurement is at least 1.6mm deep across the required portions as mentioned above. It's recommended to check multiple points on each tyre to ensure consistent tread wear.
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At any point across the main part of the tyre, the tread depth MUST BE NOT LESS THAN 1.6mm
Central 3/4of the breadth
Around the entire outer circumference
Use a tread depth gauge to measure the depth of the tread grooves.
Question 11:
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Check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold:
It's crucial to check the tyre pressures when the tyres are cold, meaning the vehicle hasn't been driven for a significant amount of time or only driven for a short distance. This is because driving generates heat, which can increase tyre pressures and give inaccurate readings. Cold tyre pressures provide a more accurate assessment.
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Refit valve caps:
After checking and adjusting the tyre pressures, always remember to securely refit the valve caps on each tyre. These caps help to keep dirt and moisture out of the valve, preventing air leakage and maintaining the correct pressure.
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Question 12:
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Locate the dipstick:
The dipstick is a long, slender rod typically located near the engine. It may be labelled as "Engine Oil" or have an oil can symbol.
Remove the dipstick:
Grasp the handle of the dipstick and pull it out of its holder or tube.
Wipe the dipstick clean:
Use a clean cloth or tissue to wipe the entire length of the dipstick, removing any oil residue.
Reinsert the dipstick:
Place the clean dipstick back into its holder or tube, ensuring it is fully inserted.
Remove the dipstick again:
Take the dipstick out of its holder or tube once more.
Check the oil level:
Look at the end of the dipstick where the oil is present. You will typically see two marks or indicators labelled as "high" and "low." The oil level should fall between these two marks.
Assess the oil level:
Observe where the oil film on the dipstick reaches. If it is within the range of the high and low marks, the oil level is sufficient. However, if the oil level is below the low mark, it indicates that the engine requires more oil.
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Avoid overfilling:
Take care not to add too much oil, as overfilling can cause issues such as oil foaming, increased pressure, and potential damage to engine components. If you accidentally overfill, use a suitable tool or extraction pump to remove the excess oil until the level is within the correct range.
Securely close the oil filler cap: Once you have achieved the correct oil level, securely tighten the oil filler cap to prevent any oil leaks.
It's important to note that the dipstick provides an approximate measurement of the oil level. It is advisable to consult the vehicle's manual for the specific oil capacity and recommended oil level for your car's engine.
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Question 13:
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Locate the radiator header tank:
The radiator header tank is a translucent container usually located near the engine bay. It is connected to the radiator and allows for checking the coolant level without opening the radiator cap.
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Check the coolant level:
Look at the side of the radiator header tank where you'll find high and low level marks indicating the appropriate coolant level. The coolant level should be between these marks.
Question 14:
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It is crucial to use the correct type of brake fluid, which can be found in the car's manual. Different vehicles may require different types of brake fluid, and using the wrong type can lead to brake system damage.
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