Show Me Tell Me Driving Test Questions

Show Me Tell Me Driving Test Questions a Guide from Intensive Driving Courses

Since 1st September 2003 at the start of every Driving Test Candidates have been asked two questions about basic car maintenance of the type 'SHOW ME' or 'TELL ME'.

Since 4th December 2017 these have been separated, with a 'Tell Me' question being asked at the beginning of the test, and a 'Show Me' question being asked on the move during the driving test.

This is a revised list of Questions that was introduced from 4th December 2017.

Answering one, or even both questions wrongly is unlikely to result in a failed driving test.

Failing to answer either one or both questions correctly normally results in one Driving Error being marked.

A total of 16 “Driving Errors” would result in a Driving Test Fail.

Any error relating to the control of the car, or to safety that occured whilst responding to one of the 'Show Me' questions on the move could be marked by the examiner, and depending on the fault, it could result in a driving test fail

The questions may involve opening the car bonnet and pointing out items, but will not involve dismantling or opening anything or touching a hot engine.

Tell Me Questions and Example Answers: asked at the start of the driving test

Question T1:
Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.

Answer T1:
Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.

Question T2:
Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.

Answer T2:
Manufacturer’s guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, don’t forget spare tyre, remember to refit valve caps.

Question T3:
Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash.

Answer T3:
The head restraint should be adjusted so the rigid part of the head restraint is at least as high as the eye or top of the ears, and as close to the back of the head as is comfortable. Note: Some restraints might not be adjustable.

Question T4:
Tell me how you would check the tyres to ensure that they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road.

Answer T4:
No cuts and bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central 3/4 of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.

Question T5:
Tell me how you would check that the headlights & tail lights are working. (No need to exit vehicle).

Answer T5:
Explanation: Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), then walk round vehicle. (As this is a 'Tell Me' question, there is no need to physically check the lights).

Question T6:
Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti lock braking system.

Answer T6:
Warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti lock braking system.

Question T7:
Tell me how you would check the direction indicators are working. (No need to exit the vehicle).

Answer T7:
Explanation: Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), then walk round vehicle. (As this is a 'Tell Me' question, there is no need to physically check the lights).

Question T8:
Tell me how you would check the brake lights are working on this car.

Answer T8:
Explanation: Operate brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors, etc., or ask someone to help.

Question T9:
Tell me how you would check the power assisted steering is working before starting a journey.

Answer T9:
Explanation: If the steering becomes heavy, the system may not be working properly. Before starting a journey two 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.

Question T10:
Tell me how you would switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you would use it / them, (no need to exit vehicle).

Answer T10:
Operate switch (turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary). Check warning light is on. Explain use.

Question T11:
Tell me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam and explain how you would know the main beam is on.

Answer T11:
Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main beam warning light.

Question T12:
Open the bonnet and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil.

Answer T12:
Identify dipstick / oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum/ maximum markers.

Question T13:
Open the bonnet and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient engine coolant.

Answer T13:
Identify high/low level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.

Question T14:
Open the bonnet and tell me how you would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid.

Answer T14:
Identify reservoir, check level against high/low markings.

Show Me Questions: asked on the move during the driving test

Question S1:
When it is safe to do so can you show me how you wash and clean the rear windscreen.

Question S2:
When it is safe to do so can you show me how you wash and clean the front windscreen.

Question S3:
When it is safe to do so can you show me how you would switch on your dipped headlights.

Question S4:
When it is safe to do so can you show me how you would set the rear demister.

Question S5:
When it is safe to do so can you show me how you would operate the horn.

Question S6:
When it is safe to do so can you show me how you would demist the front windscreen.

Question S7:
When it is safe can you show me how you would open and close the side window.

Pages in the Theory and Practical Driving Tests Guide section of the Intensive Driving Courses website:

Sections of the Intensive Driving Courses website: