SHOW ME, TELL ME QUESTIONS
Preparing for your driving test
During your practical driving test, your examiner will ask you two types of questions: 'show me' and 'tell me'.
These questions are crucial for passing the test, so understanding them well can help you succeed. There are 7 'show me' questions and 14 'tell me' ones. This guide explains what each type is and how to answer them. For the 'tell me' question, you'll need to talk about how you'd do a safety task. This happens right at the beginning of your test, before you even start driving. Next up, during the driving part of the test, you'll tackle the 'show me' question. This's when you have to actually do the safety task while you're driving.
'Show me' questions
01.
Can you show me how you wash and clean the rear windscreen?
The process might differ by car, but usually, you can start the fluids and rear wipers by pushing the right-hand side indicator stalk. Always keep your hands on the wheel and use your fingers to operate the controls.
02.
Can you show me how you wash and clean the front windscreen?
Just like before, you'll only need to move the indicator stalk on the right side with your finger stretched out, this time by pulling the indicator stalk. Make sure to keep looking ahead and keep your hands on the wheel.
03.
Can you show me how you would switch on your dipped headlights?
You might have to show that you can turn on the car's headlights. Depending on the car's make and model, you'll need to flip the headlights on with a switch or a dial. If you're not sure, just look in the car's owner's manual.
04.
Can you show me how you would set the rear demister?
Some vehicles, particularly the more modern models, feature a distinct button designed specifically for the rear window. It typically displays an icon in the form of a square, with wavy lines extending from its bottom
05.
Can you show me how you would operate the horn?
To activate the horn, simply push the center of the steering wheel. This doesn't need to be for an extended period; just demonstrate that you can operate it.
06.
Can you show me how you would demist the front windscreen?
Turn on the fan, adjust the dial to direct air towards the front windscreen. Additionally, there's a button specifically designed to speed up the process. This button is typically depicted as a windscreen with wavy lines extending from beneath it.
07.
Can you show me how you would open and close the side window?
Use your right hand to push the side window buttons on the driver's side door. You'll need to open and then close the window.
Video credit: The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)
'Tell me' questions
01.
How would you check that the brakes are working before starting a journey?
Brake pedals should not be too soft or spongy. You should explain to the examiner how you check the brakes. This involves slowly pushing down on the pedal, and the car shouldn't drift to one side.
02.
Where would you find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked?
You can locate this pressure setting through various methods. It's typically found in the car's maker's manual or on the side of the tyre. To measure the pressure, you'll require a dependable pressure gauge. This involves taking off the valve cap, connecting the gauge to the valve, obtaining a measurement, and then making the necessary adjustments. Only check and adjust pressures when the tyres are cold,
03.
How would you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash?
The head restraint should be adjusted to ensure that the rigid portion is at least as high as the top of the ears or the highest point of the head, and as close to the back of the head as is comfortable. Please note: Some restraints may not be adjustable.
04.
How would you check the tyres to ensure that they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road?
Ensure there are no cuts, cracks, or bulges in the tyre. A crucial aspect of this is verifying that your tyres have at least 1.6mm of tread depth across the central three-quarters of the tyre's width and around the entire outer circumference.
05.
How would you check that the headlights and taillights are working?
In this section of the examination, you'll be required to describe the procedure for operating the switch, followed by a thorough inspection of the vehicle's lights to ensure they function properly. Since this question falls under the category of 'tell me' inquiries, you're not obligated to physically inspect the lights. Instead, you should outline the steps you would take. It might be necessary to activate the engine to showcase this aspect of the test.
06.
How would you know if there was a problem with your anti-lock braking system?
If the ABS warning light comes on, it indicates a problem with the anti-lock braking system. Make sure to point this out on the dashboard. Although it shouldn't be lit, it will display the letters 'ABS' within a circle.
07.
How would you check the direction indicators are working?
Explain to the examiner how you would operate the indicators for an upcoming turn in the road. Simply push the indicator stalk up and down to show how it's done.
08.
How would you check the brake lights are working on the car?
For this question, you'll need to explain how you'd use the brake pedal, and then check if the windows or doors around you reflect light to see if they're working. Or, you could ask someone to help you out and see if they light up when you press the brake.
09.
How would you check the power-assisted steering is working before starting a journey?
For the first method, gently rotate the steering wheel while the engine is running, and you should notice a slight but discernible movement. The second method involves turning the steering wheel immediately after moving off. This will immediately signal whether the power assistance is working.
10.
How would you switch on the rear fog lights and explain when you would use them?
You must describe the method for activating your rear fog lights. Typically, this function is located to the right of the steering wheel in most cars. The symbol for fog lights features a semicircle with a vertical line and three horizontal wavey lines for the rear light.
11.
How would you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam and how would you know the main beam is on?
Start the engine and activate the full beam indicator (often a lever on your steering column). A blue light will show up on the dashboard if it's activated.
12.
Open the bonnet and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil
This process involves finding the indicator, typically a yellow ring-shaped handle, and removing it when the vehicle is parked on a level surface. Afterward, you should clean the oil stick indicator, reinstall it, and then remove it once more to view the oil level against the minimum and maximum markers.
13.
Open the bonnet and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient engine coolant
To check, look at the side of the coolant tank for a raised line or 'level' sign. If the water is at the right level, the coolant is good. If not, explain how you'd add more coolant.
14.
Open the bonnet and tell me how you would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid
Identify the reservoir, which is positioned on the right-hand side, or driver's side, of the engine. Open the cap of the reservoir and inspect whether the fluid level is between the two marked indicators.
Video credit: The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)