Show Me, Tell Me' Questions

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Slide 0: Mastering the ' Show Me , Tell Me ' Vehicle Safety Questions TELL ME ( Before Driving ) UNDER THE BONNET CHECKS Engine Oli Check Identify dipstick / indicator , check level against min / max markers . Engine Coolant Check: Identify high / low marks on taniccap , explain topping - up . Hydraulic Brake Fluid: Identify reservoir , check fluid against high / low markings . Head Restraint Adjustment Rigld part at eye / ear level , comfortable distance to back of head . THE TEST FORMAT 2 Questions Total 1 ' tell me ' ( explanation ) and 1 ' show me ' ( demonstration ) per test . Timing Matters Tell me : before engine start . Show me : while driving . 1 Driving Fault Incorrect answer results in a single minor fault . Dangerous Driving = Instant Fail Test failed if driving becomes potentially dangerous during ' show me ' task . SHOW ME ( While Driving ) Braking Health Brakes not spongy ; car doesn't pull to one side . Test as you set off . Tire Pressure & Condition: Check cold with gauge ( refer to guide ) ; 18mm tread depth across center 3/4 ; no cuts / buiges . ABS Warning Light Dashboard warning light illuminates if system has a problem . Windscreen Maintenance Wash and clean either front or rear windscreens . Checking Exterior Lights: Operate switch , walk around to verify ( physical walk not required for answer ) . Visibility Controls Switch on dipped headlights , set rear demister , or demist front windscreen . Cabin & Safety Controls Operate the horn or open / close a side window while moving . Slide 1: The Driving Test ' Show Me , Tell Me ' Guide A visual memory palace for your vehicle safety questions Slide 2: How the Safety Questions Work You will be asked exactly 2 vehicle safety questions during your test . Phase 1 : " Tell Me " 1 question at the start of your test , before you start driving . You explain how to carry out a safety task . Phase 2 : " Show Me " 1 question while you are driving . You physically show how to carry out a safety task . The Scoring Rules • Minor Fault : You receive one driving fault ( a ' minor ' ) if you get one or both questions wrong . • Instant Fail : You will fail your driving test if your driving is dangerous or potentially dangerous while answering the ' show me ' question . Slide 3: Phase 1 : The Stationary ' Tell Me ' Questions The Scenario : The engine is off , the car is parked , and you are having a conversation with the examiner . The Strategy : We have grouped the 14 possible questions into 5 physical zones . To remember the answers , just mentally walk around the car . Zone 1 : Under the Bonnet Zone 5 : Visibility & Safety Zone 4 : Exterior Lights Zone 2 : Tyres & Treads Zone 3 : Brakes & Steering Slide 4: Tell Me Zone 1 : Under the Bonnet Prerequisite Alert : You must open the bonnet for all three of these questions . 1. Engine Oil E Examiner : " Tell me how you'd check that the engine has sufficient oil . " Driver Action : Identify the dipstick / oil level indicator . Describe checking the oil level against the minimum and maximum markers . 2. Engine Coolant Examiner : " Tell me how you'd check that the engine has suffice coolant . " Driver Action : Identify high and low level markings on the header tank or radiator filler cap . Describe how to top up to the correct level . 3. Brake Fluid Examiner : " Tell me how you'd check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid . " Driver Action : Identify the reservoir . Check the level against the high and low markings . Slide 5: 1. Tyre Pressures Tell Me Zone 2 : Tyres & Treads Examiner : " Tell me where you'd find the information for the recommended tyre pressures ... and how they should be checked . " Driver Action : - Check the manufacturer's guide . Use a reliable pressure gauge . - Check and adjust when tyres are cold . - Don't forget the spare tyre . Remember to refit valve caps . 2. Tyre Condition Examiner : " Tell me how you'd check the tyres to ensure they have sufficient tread depth and their general condition is safe ... " - Visually check for no cuts or bulges . - Ensure 1.6mm of tread depth across the central three - quarters of the breadth of the tyre . breadth of the tyre . - Check around the entire outer circumference . Slide 6: Power Steering Examiner : " Tell me how you'd Tell Me Zone 3 : Brakes & Steering Anti - Lock Braking System Examiner : " Tell me how you'd know if there was a problem with your anti - lock braking system . " Driver Action : The ABS warning light should illuminate if there is a fault . check the power - assisted steering is working ... " Driver Action : State that heavy steering indicates a problem . - Apply gentle pressure to the steering wheel while starting the engine ; it should result in a slight , noticeable movement . - OR , turn the steering wheel just after moving off to feel the power assistance . Brake Feel Examiner : " Tell me how you'd check that the brakes are working before starting a journey . " Driver Action : State that brakes should not feel spongy or slack . They should be tested as you set off , and the vehicle should not pull to one side . Slide 7: Tell Me Zone 4 : Exterior Lights You do not need to exit the vehicle to answer these . 1. Headlights , Tail Lights & Indicators Examiner : " Tell me how you'd check [ the lights ] are working . " Driver Action : Explain you would operate the switch ( turning on the ignition if necessary ) , and then walk round the vehicle . 2. Brake Lights Examiner : " Tell me how you'd check the brake lights are working on this car . " Driver Action : Explain you would operate the brake pedal and make use of reflections in windows or doors , or ask someone to help . Slide 8: Tell Me Zone 5 : Visibility & Safety Rear Fog Lights Examiner : " Tell me how you'd switch on the rear fog light ( s ) and explain when you'd use them . " Driver Action : Operate switch . Check warning light is on . Explain when you would use them ( e.g. , heavily reduced visibility ) . Main Beam Examiner : " Tell me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam ... " Driver Action : Operate switch . Check the main beam warning light is illuminated . Safety Examiner : " Tell me how you'd switch on the rear fog , light ( s ) to headlight - vom you to ualcn bean then use beam . " Head Restraint Examiner : " Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted ... " Driver Action : The rigid part must be 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 are not adjustable ) . Slide 9: Phase 2 : The Moving " Show Me " Questions The Scenario : You are actively driving on the road . The examiner will evaluate your ability to operate secondary controls without losing control of the primary driving task . THE GOLDEN RULE : " WHEN IT'S SAFE TO DO SO ... " Risk Reminder Every single prompt in this section begins with the same phrase . Do not rush . Waiting 30 seconds for a straight , clear piece of road to answer the question is the correct choice . Losing control of the vehicle while answering is an instant fail . Slide 10: Show Me : Maintaining Clear Vision Prompt for all : " When it's safe to do so , can you show me how you ... " 1. Wash the front windscreen . Physically activate the front washer / wiper control . 3. Demist the front windscreen . Adjust the climate controls / fan to clear the front glass . 2. Wash the rear windscreen . Physically activate the rear washer / wiper control . 4. Set the rear demister . Press the rear window heating button . Slide 11: Show Me : Controls & Communication Prompt for all : " When it's safe to do so , can you show me how you ... " 1. Switch on dipped headlights Rotate or press the headlight control to the dipped position . 2. Operate the horn Briefly and firmly press the horn on the steering wheel . 3. Open and close the side window Use the door panel switch to lower and then raise the driver's side window . Slide 12: You Are Ready to Drive Final Checklist 14 stationary explanations mastered . 7 active demonstrations memorized . 1 golden rule remembered : Only act when it is safe to do so . Next Steps Get ready to pass your driving test , learn how to deal with nerves , and find out why people fail . Official Guidance Visit the official ' Ready to Pass ? ' website for comprehensive guidance straight from the Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency .
Show Me, Tell Me' Questions lesson slide 1
Slide 1: Mastering the ' Show Me , Tell Me ' Vehicle Safety Questions TELL ME ( Before Driving ) UNDER THE BONNET CHECKS Engine Oli Check Identify dipstick / indicator , check level against min / max markers . Engine Coolant Check: Identify high / low marks on taniccap , explain topping - up . Hydraulic Brake Fluid: Identify reservoir , check fluid against high / low markings . Head Restraint Adjustment Rigld part at eye / ear level , comfortable distance to back of head . THE TEST FORMAT 2 Questions Total 1 ' tell me ' ( explanation ) and 1 ' show me ' ( demonstration ) per test . Timing Matters Tell me : before engine start . Show me : while driving . 1 Driving Fault Incorrect answer results in a single minor fault . Dangerous Driving = Instant Fail Test failed if driving becomes potentially dangerous during ' show me ' task . SHOW ME ( While Driving ) Braking Health Brakes not spongy ; car doesn't pull to one side . Test as you set off . Tire Pressure & Condition: Check cold with gauge ( refer to guide ) ; 18mm tread depth across center 3/4 ; no cuts / buiges . ABS Warning Light Dashboard warning light illuminates if system has a problem . Windscreen Maintenance Wash and clean either front or rear windscreens . Checking Exterior Lights: Operate switch , walk around to verify ( physical walk not required for answer ) . Visibility Controls Switch on dipped headlights , set rear demister , or demist front windscreen . Cabin & Safety Controls Operate the horn or open / close a side window while moving .
Show Me, Tell Me' Questions lesson slide 2
Slide 2: The Driving Test ' Show Me , Tell Me ' Guide A visual memory palace for your vehicle safety questions
Show Me, Tell Me' Questions lesson slide 3
Slide 3: How the Safety Questions Work You will be asked exactly 2 vehicle safety questions during your test . Phase 1 : " Tell Me " 1 question at the start of your test , before you start driving . You explain how to carry out a safety task . Phase 2 : " Show Me " 1 question while you are driving . You physically show how to carry out a safety task . The Scoring Rules • Minor Fault : You receive one driving fault ( a ' minor ' ) if you get one or both questions wrong . • Instant Fail : You will fail your driving test if your driving is dangerous or potentially dangerous while answering the ' show me ' question .
Show Me, Tell Me' Questions lesson slide 4
Slide 4: Phase 1 : The Stationary ' Tell Me ' Questions The Scenario : The engine is off , the car is parked , and you are having a conversation with the examiner . The Strategy : We have grouped the 14 possible questions into 5 physical zones . To remember the answers , just mentally walk around the car . Zone 1 : Under the Bonnet Zone 5 : Visibility & Safety Zone 4 : Exterior Lights Zone 2 : Tyres & Treads Zone 3 : Brakes & Steering
Show Me, Tell Me' Questions lesson slide 5
Slide 5: Tell Me Zone 1 : Under the Bonnet Prerequisite Alert : You must open the bonnet for all three of these questions . 1. Engine Oil E Examiner : " Tell me how you'd check that the engine has sufficient oil . " Driver Action : Identify the dipstick / oil level indicator . Describe checking the oil level against the minimum and maximum markers . 2. Engine Coolant Examiner : " Tell me how you'd check that the engine has suffice coolant . " Driver Action : Identify high and low level markings on the header tank or radiator filler cap . Describe how to top up to the correct level . 3. Brake Fluid Examiner : " Tell me how you'd check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid . " Driver Action : Identify the reservoir . Check the level against the high and low markings .
Show Me, Tell Me' Questions lesson slide 6
Slide 6: 1. Tyre Pressures Tell Me Zone 2 : Tyres & Treads Examiner : " Tell me where you'd find the information for the recommended tyre pressures ... and how they should be checked . " Driver Action : - Check the manufacturer's guide . Use a reliable pressure gauge . - Check and adjust when tyres are cold . - Don't forget the spare tyre . Remember to refit valve caps . 2. Tyre Condition Examiner : " Tell me how you'd check the tyres to ensure they have sufficient tread depth and their general condition is safe ... " - Visually check for no cuts or bulges . - Ensure 1.6mm of tread depth across the central three - quarters of the breadth of the tyre . breadth of the tyre . - Check around the entire outer circumference .
Show Me, Tell Me' Questions lesson slide 7
Slide 7: Power Steering Examiner : " Tell me how you'd Tell Me Zone 3 : Brakes & Steering Anti - Lock Braking System Examiner : " Tell me how you'd know if there was a problem with your anti - lock braking system . " Driver Action : The ABS warning light should illuminate if there is a fault . check the power - assisted steering is working ... " Driver Action : State that heavy steering indicates a problem . - Apply gentle pressure to the steering wheel while starting the engine ; it should result in a slight , noticeable movement . - OR , turn the steering wheel just after moving off to feel the power assistance . Brake Feel Examiner : " Tell me how you'd check that the brakes are working before starting a journey . " Driver Action : State that brakes should not feel spongy or slack . They should be tested as you set off , and the vehicle should not pull to one side .
Show Me, Tell Me' Questions lesson slide 8
Slide 8: Tell Me Zone 4 : Exterior Lights You do not need to exit the vehicle to answer these . 1. Headlights , Tail Lights & Indicators Examiner : " Tell me how you'd check [ the lights ] are working . " Driver Action : Explain you would operate the switch ( turning on the ignition if necessary ) , and then walk round the vehicle . 2. Brake Lights Examiner : " Tell me how you'd check the brake lights are working on this car . " Driver Action : Explain you would operate the brake pedal and make use of reflections in windows or doors , or ask someone to help .
Show Me, Tell Me' Questions lesson slide 9
Slide 9: Tell Me Zone 5 : Visibility & Safety Rear Fog Lights Examiner : " Tell me how you'd switch on the rear fog light ( s ) and explain when you'd use them . " Driver Action : Operate switch . Check warning light is on . Explain when you would use them ( e.g. , heavily reduced visibility ) . Main Beam Examiner : " Tell me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam ... " Driver Action : Operate switch . Check the main beam warning light is illuminated . Safety Examiner : " Tell me how you'd switch on the rear fog , light ( s ) to headlight - vom you to ualcn bean then use beam . " Head Restraint Examiner : " Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted ... " Driver Action : The rigid part must be 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 are not adjustable ) .
Show Me, Tell Me' Questions lesson slide 10
Slide 10: Phase 2 : The Moving " Show Me " Questions The Scenario : You are actively driving on the road . The examiner will evaluate your ability to operate secondary controls without losing control of the primary driving task . THE GOLDEN RULE : " WHEN IT'S SAFE TO DO SO ... " Risk Reminder Every single prompt in this section begins with the same phrase . Do not rush . Waiting 30 seconds for a straight , clear piece of road to answer the question is the correct choice . Losing control of the vehicle while answering is an instant fail .
Show Me, Tell Me' Questions lesson slide 11
Slide 11: Show Me : Maintaining Clear Vision Prompt for all : " When it's safe to do so , can you show me how you ... " 1. Wash the front windscreen . Physically activate the front washer / wiper control . 3. Demist the front windscreen . Adjust the climate controls / fan to clear the front glass . 2. Wash the rear windscreen . Physically activate the rear washer / wiper control . 4. Set the rear demister . Press the rear window heating button .
Show Me, Tell Me' Questions lesson slide 12
Slide 12: Show Me : Controls & Communication Prompt for all : " When it's safe to do so , can you show me how you ... " 1. Switch on dipped headlights Rotate or press the headlight control to the dipped position . 2. Operate the horn Briefly and firmly press the horn on the steering wheel . 3. Open and close the side window Use the door panel switch to lower and then raise the driver's side window .
Show Me, Tell Me' Questions lesson slide 13
Slide 13: You Are Ready to Drive Final Checklist 14 stationary explanations mastered . 7 active demonstrations memorized . 1 golden rule remembered : Only act when it is safe to do so . Next Steps Get ready to pass your driving test , learn how to deal with nerves , and find out why people fail . Official Guidance Visit the official ' Ready to Pass ? ' website for comprehensive guidance straight from the Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency .
📖 DVSA Revision Lesson ⏱️ 10 Min Read ❓ 10 Practice Questions 🌐 68 Languages Support

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📜 Official Lesson Transcript & Audio SRT Dialogue 224 Timestamps
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00:00 All right, let's talk about the UK driving test.
00:03 You know it's more than just driving, right?
00:04 There are these two little safety questions
00:06 that can trip people up.
00:08 Today, we're going to demystify them completely
00:10 so you can walk into your test feeling confident.
00:13 Let's dive in.
00:14 So, have you been worrying about
00:16 these two specific safety questions?
00:18 You know the ones.
00:19 The examiner hits you with one
00:20 before you even start the engine
00:22 and then another one pops up
00:23 while you're out on the road.
00:24 They're really just there
00:25 to make sure you get your car
00:26 and know how to handle it safely.
00:28 Okay, so here's the deal.
00:30 They call them the tell me and show me questions.
00:32 Pretty straightforward, right?
00:34 For tell me, you just,
00:36 well, you tell the examiner
00:37 how you do a safety check.
00:39 No need to get your hands dirty.
00:41 Then there's the show me one
00:42 where you actually have to do the thing
00:44 while you're driving.
00:45 It sounds simple,
00:46 but how you're marked is super important.
00:49 Now, listen up
00:50 because this part is absolutely critical.
00:52 If you get one of the answers wrong,
00:54 don't sweat it.
00:55 Seriously, it's just one minor fault.
00:57 No big deal.
00:58 But, and this is a huge but,
01:00 if you're doing your show me task
01:02 and you swerve
01:03 or take your eyes off the road
01:04 for too long,
01:05 basically if you do anything dangerous,
01:07 that's it.
01:07 Test over.
01:08 It's an instant fail.
01:10 Safety always comes first.
01:12 All right, let's tackle part one,
01:13 the tell me question.
01:15 Let's put ourselves right there
01:17 at the start of your test.
01:18 You've just gotten in the car,
01:20 the engine's still off
01:21 and the examiner asks you to explain
01:23 how you'd perform a specific safety check.
01:25 Okay, so there are 14 possible questions they could ask.
01:29 And I know that sounds like a ton to memorize,
01:31 but trust me,
01:32 we're not gonna do that.
01:33 We're gonna group them together
01:34 into little chunks
01:35 that just make sense.
01:37 It's way, way easier to remember them this way.
01:40 First up, let's pop the hood.
01:42 Our first group of questions
01:43 is all about what's going on under the bonnet.
01:46 We're talking about checking the car's lifeblood,
01:49 all those essential fluids.
01:51 The examiner might ask you
01:53 to actually open it up and point things out.
01:56 So, engine oil, this is a classic.
01:58 You'd point to the dipstick,
02:00 you know, that little ring you pull
02:01 and just talk them through it.
02:02 You'd say I'd pull it out,
02:04 give it a wipe with a cloth,
02:05 stick it all the way back in,
02:06 and then pull it out again
02:07 to check the oil level
02:08 is between the min and max marks.
02:10 That's it.
02:11 Next up, engine coolant, super similar.
02:14 You just find that big plastic tank,
02:16 point out the high and low markings on the side,
02:18 and explain that you'd make sure
02:19 the liquid inside
02:20 is somewhere between those two lines.
02:22 Simple.
02:23 And the last of our under the bonnet checks
02:25 is the brake fluid.
02:26 See a pattern here?
02:27 It's basically the same thing again.
02:29 Find the reservoir,
02:30 point to the high and low marks,
02:31 and say you check the level is between them,
02:33 done and dusted.
02:34 All right, we can close the bonnet now.
02:37 Those checks are done.
02:38 Let's move on to our next chunk.
02:40 This one is all about your connection
02:42 to the road itself.
02:44 I'm talking tires and brakes.
02:46 You know, the stuff that really keeps you safe.
02:49 So, what if they ask about the brakes?
02:51 You need to hit three key points.
02:54 First, you'd say the brake pedal
02:56 shouldn't feel weird,
02:57 not spongy or slack.
02:59 Second, you test them gently
03:01 as soon as you start moving.
03:02 And third, when you do brake,
03:04 the car shouldn't pull off to one side.
03:06 Got it?
03:07 Three things.
03:08 And what about tire pressure?
03:10 Well, you'd start by saying
03:11 you'd find the right pressures in the car's manual.
03:13 Then you'd use a proper pressure gauge.
03:15 And here's the pro tip you have to mention.
03:17 You do it when the tires are cold.
03:19 That's how you get a true reading.
03:21 Oh, and you'd always put the little valve caps back on.
03:24 Okay, get ready to burn a number into your brain.
03:26 1.6 millimeters.
03:29 1.6.
03:31 That is the absolute legal minimum
03:33 for your tire tread depth here in the UK.
03:35 You gotta know that one.
03:36 But it's not just about the number.
03:38 There's a little more to it.
03:40 You need to explain that this 1.6 millimeter depth
03:42 has to cover the middle three quarters of the tires with.
03:45 And you gotta check it all the way around the tire.
03:47 Plus, while you're at it,
03:49 you give the sides a quick look
03:50 for any nasty cuts or bulges.
03:52 All right, we're onto the final group of tell me questions.
03:54 And honestly, these are kind of the easy ones.
03:56 Why?
03:57 Because you can answer every single one of them
03:59 without moving an inch from the driver's seat.
04:01 Let's talk about the head restraint.
04:03 This thing is so much more than a headrest.
04:06 It's a massive safety feature
04:08 that protects you from whiplash.
04:09 The correct position?
04:11 You'd say the main hard part should be level
04:13 with the top of your ears or your eyes.
04:15 And it needs to be nice and close to the back of your head
04:18 as close as you can get it while still being comfortable.
04:21 Power steering.
04:23 How do you know it's working?
04:24 Well, first you'd say that if the steering feels really heavy,
04:27 there's probably a problem.
04:28 But to check it, you've got two options.
04:30 Option one, put a little pressure on the steering wheel
04:33 as you turn the engine on.
04:34 You should feel it suddenly get lighter.
04:36 Option two, just as you start to move off,
04:39 give the wheel a little turn.
04:40 You'll feel that power assistance kick right in.
04:43 Next up, the ABS or anti-lock braking system.
04:47 That's the magic that stops your wheels from locking up
04:49 and skidding if you slam on the brakes.
04:51 So how would you know if something's wrong with it?
04:53 The answer couldn't be simpler.
04:55 A warning light will pop up right there on your dashboard.
04:58 That's literally the whole answer.
05:00 And finally, the lights.
05:01 You might get asked about headlights, indicators,
05:03 brake lights, any of them.
05:05 But for a tell me question,
05:06 the answer is pretty much always the same.
05:08 You'd say, I'd operate the switch
05:10 and then I'd get out and walk around the car
05:12 to see if it's working.
05:13 Easy peasy.
05:15 Okay, deep breath.
05:16 You've ace the tell me question.
05:17 The engine's running.
05:18 You're out on the road and the test is underway.
05:21 Sometime during the drive, it's time for part two.
05:23 The show me question.
05:25 The one you have to actually do.
05:27 Now, before we even get into what they'll ask,
05:29 there's a phrase you need to listen for.
05:32 It's the most important part of the instruction.
05:34 The examiner will always, always say when it's safe to do so.
05:39 When you hear those words, that's your signal to breathe.
05:42 There is no rush.
05:43 You wait until the road is clear.
05:45 You're on a nice, straight bit
05:46 and you feel totally in control
05:48 before you even think about doing what they asked.
05:50 Get that right and you're golden.
05:53 So what are these tasks?
05:55 As you can see, it's all the simple stuff.
05:57 Watching the windscreen, turning on the headlights,
05:59 beeping the horn, nothing you haven't done a thousand times.
06:02 But here's the real test.
06:03 Can you do it without looking?
06:05 You need to know where every single one of those controls
06:07 is by touch alone,
06:08 whether it's on a stock, a button on the dash,
06:10 or on the door.
06:11 It has to be pure muscle memory
06:13 so your eyes stay fixed on the road.
06:15 So we've been through all the possibilities.
06:17 We've talked about what to say and what to do.
06:20 But what's the actual secret?
06:21 What's the one thing that will let you walk into that test
06:23 feeling totally cool and confident about these questions?
06:27 It really comes down to three things.
06:29 First, know your car,
06:31 the one you're taking the test in, inside and out.
06:34 Second, practice.
06:35 Don't just memorize the words, actually go out and do
06:38 every single one of these checks until its second nature.
06:41 And third, and most importantly, stay safe.
06:44 Remember, these aren't just tricks to pass a test.
06:46 They're real world safety habits.
06:47 Make safety your number one priority
06:49 and you won't just pass.
06:50 You'll be a better driver for it.
06:52 You've got this.
06:53 Good luck.

📖 'Show Me, Tell Me' Vehicle Safety Questions

You will be asked 2 vehicle safety questions during your car driving test. The driving examiners will ask these questions from an official list. These are known as the 'show me, tell me' questions.

  • •
    The 'tell me' question is asked at the start of your test, before you start driving. You will have to explain how you would carry out a safety task.
  • •
    The 'show me' question is asked while you are actually driving. You will have to physically show the examiner how you would carry out a safety task.

If you answer one or both questions incorrectly, you will get one driving fault (a 'minor'). You will not fail your test just for getting these wrong, but you could fail if you lose control of the car while answering the 'show me' question.

#### 1. The 'Tell Me' Questions (Asked Before You Drive)
The examiner will ask you one of the following 14 questions before you start the engine. You must explain the correct procedure:

  1. 1
    Brakes: Tell me how you'd check that the brakes are working before starting a journey. (Answer: Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.)
  2. 2
    Tyre Pressures: Tell me where you'd find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked. (Answer: 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.)
  3. 3
    Head Restraint: 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: 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.)
  4. 4
    Tyre Tread Depth: 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. (Answer: No cuts and bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tyre, and around the entire outer circumference of the tyre.)
  5. 5
    Headlights & Tail Lights: Tell me how you'd check that the headlights and tail lights are working. (Answer: Explain you'd operate the switch, turn on ignition if necessary, then walk round vehicle. As this is a 'tell me' question, you do not need to physically check the lights.)
  6. 6
    ABS: Tell me how you'd know if there was a problem with your anti-lock braking system. (Answer: Warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti-lock braking system.)
  7. 7
    Direction Indicators: Tell me how you'd check the direction indicators are working. (Answer: Explain you'd operate the switch or hazard warning lights and then walk round the vehicle.)
  8. 8
    Brake Lights: Tell me how you'd check the brake lights are working on this car. (Answer: Explain you'd operate the brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows or doors, or ask someone to help.)
  9. 9
    Power Steering: Tell me how you'd check the power-assisted steering is working before starting a journey. (Answer: 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.)
  10. 10
    Rear Fog Lights: Tell me how you'd switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you'd use it/them. (Answer: Operate switch, turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary. Check warning light is on. Explain use.)
  11. 11
    Dipped to Main Beam: Tell me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam and explain how you'd know the main beam is on. (Answer: Operate switch, check with main beam warning light.)

📌 Open the Bonnet Questions:

You will need to open the bonnet and safely prop it open for the following 3 questions:

  1. 12
    Engine Oil: Open the bonnet and tell me how you'd check that the engine has sufficient oil. (Answer: Identify dipstick/oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum and maximum markers.)
  2. 13
    Engine Coolant: Open the bonnet and tell me how you'd check that the engine has sufficient engine coolant. (Answer: Identify high and low level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.)
  3. 14
    Brake Fluid: Open the bonnet and tell me how you'd check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid. (Answer: Identify reservoir, check level against high and low markings.)
Learner driver opening the car bonnet to check engine fluids with the examiner
🖼️ Learner driver opening the car bonnet to check engine fluids with the examiner

#### 2. The 'Show Me' Questions (Asked While You Are Driving)
While you are driving, the examiner will ask you to physically demonstrate one of the following 7 tasks. You must show how to do it safely without losing control of the vehicle:

  1. 1
    Rear Windscreen: When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the rear windscreen?
  2. 2
    Front Windscreen: When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the front windscreen?
  3. 3
    Dipped Headlights: When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd switch on your dipped headlights?
  4. 4
    Rear Demister: When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd set the rear demister?
  5. 5
    Horn: When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd operate the horn?
  6. 6
    Front Demister: When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd demist the front windscreen?
  7. 7
    Side Window: When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd open and close the side window?
Learner driver safely operating the windscreen washer controls while driving
🖼️ Learner driver safely operating the windscreen washer controls while driving

Ready to test your knowledge?

Attempt practice test questions for Show Me, Tell Me' Questions.

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📑 Lesson Index
📝 Practice Tests (6 Sets)
✍️ Test 1 10 Qs ✍️ Test 2 10 Qs ✍️ Test 3 10 Qs ✍️ Test 4 10 Qs ✍️ Test 5 10 Qs ✍️ Test 6 10 Qs
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