Driving Test Show Me Tell Me Questions

The show me tell me questions are a small part of the UK practical driving test, but they catch out plenty of nervous learners. They check that you know basic vehicle safety and can operate controls while driving. This guide explains how they work, groups the typical questions by topic with clear answers in plain English, and shares tips for practising. The wording below is paraphrased, and the official list and rules can change, so check the official source (the DVSA guidance on GOV.UK) before your test.

How the questions work on the test

At the time of writing, the examiner asks one “tell me” question at the start of the test, before you drive, and one “show me” question while you are driving. A tell me question asks you to explain how you would carry out a safety check. A show me question asks you to actually operate a control while on the move, when it is safe to do so.

Getting one or both wrong usually counts as a single minor driving fault, not an automatic fail. However, if you lose control of the car while carrying out a show me task, that could be marked as a serious or dangerous fault. That is why practising until the actions feel automatic matters so much.

Tell me questions: brakes and steering

How would you check the brakes are working before a journey?

Brakes should not feel spongy or slack when you press the pedal. Test them gently as you set off; the car should not pull to one side.

How would you check the power-assisted steering is working before a journey?

If the steering becomes heavy, the system may not be working. Before setting off, apply gentle pressure to the steering wheel while starting the engine; you should feel a slight movement as the system activates. Alternatively, turning the wheel just after moving off gives an immediate indication.

How would you know if there was a problem with the anti-lock braking system?

If the ABS warning light on the dashboard stays on after starting, or comes on while driving, there is a fault with the anti-lock braking system.

Tell me questions: tyres and safety equipment

Where would you find the recommended tyre pressures, and how should they be checked?

The recommended pressures are in the manufacturer’s guide, often also on a sticker inside the door frame or fuel filler flap. Use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust the pressures when the tyres are cold, remember the spare if there is one, and refit the valve caps.

How would you check the tyres have enough tread and are safe to use?

Look for no cuts or bulges, and check there is at least 1.6 mm of tread depth across the central three-quarters of the tread and around the entire circumference.

How do you make sure the head restraint is correctly adjusted?

Adjust it so the rigid part is at least as high as your eyes or the top of your ears, and as close to the back of your head as is comfortable. Some head restraints are not adjustable.

Tell me questions: lights

How would you check the headlights and tail lights are working?

Switch on the lights (turning on the ignition if needed), then walk around the car to check them. You do not need to get out during the test to answer this one.

How would you check the direction indicators are working?

Switch on the hazard warning lights and walk around the car to check all indicators are flashing.

How would you check the brake lights are working?

Use reflections in windows or garage doors, or ask someone to help by watching while you press the brake pedal.

How would you switch on the rear fog lights and when would you use them?

Operate the switch and check the warning light on the dashboard. Use rear fog lights when visibility is seriously reduced, generally to 100 metres or less, and switch them off when it improves.

How do you switch from dipped to main beam, and how do you know main beam is on?

Operate the headlight stalk or switch as appropriate for the car, and check the blue main beam warning light on the dashboard.

Tell me questions: under the bonnet

For these, the examiner may ask you to open the bonnet and point out the relevant part. Learn where everything is in the car you will take the test in.

How would you check the engine has enough oil?

Identify the dipstick and oil level indicator, describe checking the level against the minimum and maximum markers, and show where you would top up.

How would you check the engine has enough coolant?

Identify the coolant reservoir (header tank) and describe checking the level against the minimum and maximum markings. Never open it when the engine is hot.

How would you check you have a safe level of brake fluid?

Identify the brake fluid reservoir and check the level against the minimum and maximum markings.

Show me questions: operating controls while driving

These are asked on the move, and the examiner will expect you to wait until it is safe. Taking a moment to check the road before you act is part of a good answer.

• Show me how you would wash and clean the rear windscreen. Operate the rear washer and wiper control.
• Show me how you would wash and clean the front windscreen. Operate the front washer control and wipers.
• Show me how you would switch on your dipped headlights. Turn the light switch to dipped beam and check the indicator light.
• Show me how you would set the rear demister. Press the rear heated screen button and check its indicator.
• Show me how you would operate the horn. Press the horn briefly, only when safe and not in a way that would alarm others.
• Show me how you would demist the front windscreen. Set the fan and temperature, direct air to the windscreen, and use air conditioning if fitted.
• Show me how you would open and close the side window. Use the window switch or handle, briefly, while keeping full control.

Keep one hand firmly on the wheel, glance at the control rather than staring at it and return your eyes to the road quickly.

How to practise effectively

• Use the test car: controls vary, so practise in the exact car you will take the test in.
• Practise show me tasks on quiet roads with your instructor until you can find controls by feel.
• Say tell me answers out loud: explaining in your own words proves you understand rather than memorised a script.
• Open the bonnet together: have your instructor show you the dipstick, coolant and brake fluid reservoirs.
• Read the official guidance: the DVSA publishes the current list; it is the definitive version.

What if you do not know the answer?

Stay calm. A wrong or incomplete answer is normally a single minor fault, and you can still pass comfortably. Give your best explanation, and if you genuinely cannot find a control while driving, do not fumble dangerously; keep control of the car first. The examiner is looking for safe driving overall, not perfection.

Final thoughts

Show me tell me questions are easy marks if you prepare: learn the checks, know your test car and practise operating controls while driving safely. Treat them as part of becoming a responsible driver, not just a test hurdle, and always check the official source for the latest list before your test day.