Below is a clear, extended, learner-friendly version of the official “Show Me, Tell Me” vehicle safety questions, rewritten for easy understanding.
The content is aligned with Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) guidance and suitable for learner revision.
đźš— Show Me, Tell Me Questions
UK Practical Driving Test – Complete Learner Guide
One Time Pass Driving School
During your practical driving test, the examiner will ask:
- 1 “Tell Me” question at the start (before driving)
- 1 “Show Me” question while driving
Each question is worth one minor fault if answered incorrectly.
You will not fail the test for a single wrong answer.
🧠“TELL ME” QUESTIONS (Asked Before Driving)
1. Tell me how you would check the brakes are working
Answer (simple):
Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. When driving slowly, the car should stop smoothly without pulling to one side.
What the examiner wants:
You understand how brakes behave normally and can recognise a fault.
2. Tell me where you’d find the information for the correct tyre pressures
Answer:
In the vehicle handbook, inside the driver’s door frame, fuel filler cap, or glovebox.
Extra tip:
Pressures vary depending on load (passengers/luggage).
3. Tell me how to make sure your tyres are safe to use
Answer:
Check:
- Tread depth (minimum 1.6 mm across the central Âľ)
- No cuts, bulges, or damage
- Correct tyre pressure
4. Tell me how you’d check the headlights and tail lights are working
Answer:
Turn on the lights and walk around the car (or ask someone to help).
5. Tell me how you’d know if there was a problem with the anti-lock braking system (ABS)
Answer:
A warning light would stay on or flash on the dashboard.
6. Tell me how you’d check the direction indicators are working
Answer:
Switch them on and walk around the vehicle, or use reflections/windows.
7. Tell me how you’d check the brake lights are working
Answer:
Press the brake pedal and check reflections or ask someone to confirm.
8. Tell me how you’d check the power-assisted steering is working
Answer:
Gently turn the steering wheel after starting the engine. It should feel lighter than before.
9. Tell me how you’d check the horn is working
Answer:
Press it briefly while the engine is on.
10. Tell me how you’d check the windscreen washer fluid level
Answer:
Check the reservoir and top up with screen wash if low.
11. Tell me how you’d check the engine oil level
Answer:
Using the dipstick: engine off, car on level ground, wipe, reinsert, and check between min/max.
12. Tell me how you’d check the engine coolant level
Answer:
Check the level against min/max markings on the reservoir when the engine is cold.
⚠️ Never open the cap when hot.
👀 “SHOW ME” QUESTIONS (Asked While Driving)
1. Show me how you’d wash and clean the rear windscreen
What to do:
Operate the rear washer and wiper control.
2. Show me how you’d wash and clean the front windscreen
What to do:
Operate the front washer and wipers.
3. Show me how you’d switch on dipped headlights
What to do:
Turn the light control to dipped beam (not full beam).
4. Show me how you’d set the rear demister
What to do:
Press the heated rear window button.
5. Show me how you’d operate the horn
What to do:
Press the horn briefly and safely.
6. Show me how you’d demist the front windscreen
What to do:
Set airflow to windscreen, turn on fan, adjust temperature (AC if needed).
⚠️ Common Learner Mistakes
- Saying “I’d get a mechanic” (not enough detail)
- Forgetting safety points (engine off, cold engine)
- Confusing full beam with dipped headlights
- Pressing controls incorrectly while driving
âś… Examiner Expectations (Simple Rule)
You do not need perfect technical language.
You do need to show:
- Basic safety awareness
- Correct control usage
- Calm, confident explanation
🧠One Time Pass Tip for Passing First Time
Memorise answers in plain English, not mechanical jargon.
Examiners are checking safety understanding, not engineering knowledge