What Are Driving Test Practical Questions?
The practical driving test includes specific questions designed to assess your knowledge of vehicle safety and operation. These are primarily known as the 'show me, tell me' questions, where the examiner will ask you to explain how to carry out a safety check or demonstrate it on the vehicle. Passing this element is crucial for a smooth test experience.
- Examiners ask 'show me, tell me' questions about vehicle safety.
- These questions test your understanding of car maintenance and operation.
- Demonstrating knowledge helps prove your readiness to drive safely.
- Preparation for these questions is a vital part of driving test success.
These questions are not designed to trick you but to ensure you understand basic vehicle maintenance and safety procedures before you start your journey. They are a fundamental part of the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) practical driving test in the UK. The examiner will ask two questions: one 'tell me' question before you start driving, and one 'show me' question while you are driving. Getting one or both wrong may result in a minor driving fault, but it won't automatically mean you fail the test unless you accumulate too many faults overall.
Understanding the purpose behind these questions is key. They assess your ability to identify potential issues with the car before driving and to safely manage common situations that might arise during a journey. This includes knowing how to check fluid levels, tyre pressures, and how to operate essential safety features like lights and wipers. It’s about demonstrating a responsible attitude towards vehicle care, which directly contributes to road safety.
The core purpose is to ensure you can safely operate and maintain the vehicle you are driving.
The structure of the practical driving test ensures that candidates are not only competent drivers but also responsible vehicle users. The 'show me, tell me' section serves as a quick check of your theoretical and practical knowledge of the car itself. It’s a straightforward way for the examiner to gauge your awareness of the machinery you are about to control on public roads. For many learners, this part can feel daunting, but with proper preparation, it becomes a manageable step towards your full licence.
It's important to remember that the questions are standard and relate to general vehicle operation rather than specific makes or models, although your instructor will likely use the car you'll be taking your test in for practice. This means you'll be familiar with the layout and controls when the time comes.
The 'Tell Me' Question: Before You Drive
What is the 'tell me' question and how should you approach it?
The 'tell me' question is asked by the examiner at the very beginning of your practical driving test, before you even move off. You will be sitting in the driver's seat, and the examiner will pose a question about a safety aspect of the vehicle. Your task is to explain the correct procedure or knowledge. For example, the examiner might ask: 'Tell me how you would check that the power steering is working'.
Your answer should be clear, concise, and accurate. You don't need to physically demonstrate anything for the 'tell me' question; a verbal explanation is sufficient. The key is to show you understand the principle. For the power steering example, a good answer would be: 'I would start the engine and turn the steering wheel. If the steering becomes easier to turn, then the power steering is working.'
The examiner is listening for your understanding of basic vehicle operation and safety checks.
It is vital to practice these questions with your driving instructor. They will be able to guide you on the expected level of detail and the correct terminology. Some common 'tell me' questions cover checking brakes, lights, fluid levels, and tyre condition. For instance, if asked about checking the brakes, you might explain: 'I would apply pressure to the brake pedal. It should feel firm and not spongy. When driving, the car should not pull to one side when braking.'
It is crucial to have a good understanding of the car you will be using for your test. Familiarise yourself with its controls and basic maintenance checks. Your driving instructor will undoubtedly cover these points extensively during your lessons, ensuring you are well-prepared for this initial part of the test. Remember, clarity and accuracy are more important than speed.
Think of this as a quick knowledge check. The examiner wants to see that you have a foundational understanding of how your car works and how to ensure it's safe to operate. Any incorrect answer or inability to answer will be noted, but it is one part of the overall test. Focus on delivering your best explanation.
The 'Show Me' Question: While Driving
What is the 'show me' question and how do you answer it?
The 'show me' question is asked by the examiner while you are driving. This question requires you to physically demonstrate how to operate a control within the car to carry out a safety check or function. For instance, the examiner might ask: 'Show me how you would demist the front windscreen'.
When asked a 'show me' question, you will need to safely operate the relevant control. For the demisting example, you would locate and operate the front demister button or control on your dashboard. You should explain what you are doing as you do it, for example: 'I would press the front demist button to clear the windscreen.'
Safely demonstrating control operation is the objective of the 'show me' question.
The examiner will usually ask this question when it is safe to do so, for example, when you are driving at a steady speed. If the examiner asks the question at a moment when it is not safe to take your hands off the wheel or to operate a control, you should verbally acknowledge the question and explain that you will demonstrate once it is safe. They will then ask again when the opportunity arises. Never perform a demonstration if it compromises your driving or the safety of others on the road.
Common 'show me' questions involve operating lights, wipers, horn, hazard warning lights, or demisting controls. For example, if asked to 'Show me where you would check the brake fluid level and tell me how you would check the brake fluid level', you would indicate the brake fluid reservoir under the bonnet and then verbally explain the check (e.g., 'I would check the fluid level against the minimum and maximum markers on the reservoir'). Remember, the 'tell me' part of this specific question is often combined, requiring both demonstration and explanation.
Your driving instructor will integrate practice of these 'show me' tasks into your lessons. They will ensure you know where all the necessary controls are located and how to operate them smoothly and safely, without looking away from the road for too long. This practice is essential for building confidence and ensuring you can perform the task correctly under test conditions.
The ability to perform these checks demonstrates your familiarity with the vehicle's controls and your commitment to maintaining visibility and safety while driving. It’s a practical application of your knowledge, showing you can use the car's features effectively.
Common 'Show Me, Tell Me' Questions and Answers
Here is a comprehensive list of frequently asked 'show me, tell me' questions to help you prepare for your practical driving test.
Practising these questions and answers thoroughly with your instructor is paramount. They can provide context and demonstrate the correct techniques. Remember that the specific wording might vary slightly, but the underlying safety principle remains the same. Aim for clear, confident answers.
Common 'Tell Me' Questions (Asked Before Driving)
- Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.
Answer: Apply pressure to the brake pedal. It should feel firm and not spongy. When driving, the car should not pull to one side when braking. - Tell me where you would find the information for the tyre pressure and how to check the tyre pressure.
Answer: The tyre pressure information is usually in the car's manual or on a sticker on the driver's door pillar or fuel cap. Check the pressures when the tyres are cold, using a reliable pressure gauge, and inflate them to the recommended level. - Tell me how you would check the engine oil level.
Answer: Park the car on a level surface. Turn off the engine and wait for it to cool. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, re-insert it fully, then pull it out again to check the oil level against the minimum and maximum markers. - Tell me how you would check the coolant level.
Answer: Park the car on a level surface and ensure the engine has cooled down. Locate the coolant reservoir and check the level against the minimum and maximum markings. Do not open the radiator cap when the engine is hot. - Tell me how you would check the windscreen washer fluid level.
Answer: Open the bonnet, locate the reservoir, and check the fluid level against the markings. Top up with screenwash if necessary. - Tell me how you would check the windscreen for damage.
Answer: I would check the windscreen for any chips or cracks, especially in the driver's line of sight, as these could be a reason for failure. - Tell me how you would check that the direction indicators are working.
Answer: I would switch on the indicator stalk and walk around the vehicle to check that all four indicators are flashing correctly. - Tell me how you would check that the headlights and taillights are working.
Answer: I would switch on the headlights and taillights using the control stalk and walk around the vehicle to ensure they are all illuminated. - Tell me how you would check that the horn is working.
Answer: I would press the horn to ensure it is functioning correctly.
Common 'Show Me' Questions (Asked While Driving)
- Show me how you would check the parking brake for effectiveness.
Answer: Apply the parking brake firmly. When stationary, you should feel it hold the car securely. (Or, if moving off, demonstrate by pulling away gently in first gear and applying the brake to stop the car). - Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the washers and wipers.
Answer: I would operate the windscreen wiper stalk to spray fluid and activate the wipers to clear the screen. - Show me how you would demist the front windscreen.
Answer: I would operate the front demister control, usually a button or dial on the dashboard, to clear the windscreen. - Show me how you would open the bonnet and tell me how you would check the engine oil level.
Answer: I would pull the bonnet release lever inside the car, then go to the front and release the secondary catch before lifting the bonnet. I would then locate the dipstick, pull it out, wipe it clean, re-insert it, and pull it out again to check the oil level against the minimum and maximum markers. - Show me how you would open the bonnet and tell me how you would check the coolant level.
Answer: I would pull the bonnet release lever inside the car, then go to the front and release the secondary catch before lifting the bonnet. I would then locate the coolant reservoir and check the fluid level against the minimum and maximum markings. - Show me how you would switch on the rear fog light and explain when you would use it.
Answer: I would operate the rear fog light switch. You would use it when visibility is seriously reduced, typically in fog or heavy rain, to make your vehicle more visible to others from behind. - Show me how you would switch on your dipped headlights.
Answer: I would operate the headlight control stalk to switch on the dipped headlights.
The ability to perform these checks demonstrates your responsible approach to driving.
Remember to always check your surroundings before operating any controls. If the examiner asks a question that cannot be safely answered at that precise moment, inform them that you will demonstrate when it is safe. Your driving instructor will provide ample practice sessions, ensuring you are comfortable with all these procedures.
How to Prepare for Driving Test Practical Questions
Effective preparation is crucial for confidently answering the driving test practical questions.
The most effective way to prepare is to work closely with your approved driving instructor (ADI). They have up-to-date knowledge of the DVSA requirements and will integrate 'show me, tell me' practice into your regular lessons. They can point out the specific locations of controls in your test vehicle and explain the correct procedures in a way that is easy to understand and remember.
Consistent practice with your instructor is the cornerstone of successful preparation.
Create a checklist of all the possible 'show me, tell me' questions. Go through this list regularly, both with your instructor and independently. For 'tell me' questions, practice articulating the answers clearly and concisely. For 'show me' questions, physically perform the actions in the car. This repetition helps build muscle memory and recall under pressure.
Familiarise yourself thoroughly with the car you will use for your test. If you are using your instructor's car, you will likely have covered all the necessary checks. If you are using your own car, ensure you know exactly where all the relevant controls are and how they operate. A quick glance at the car's manual can also provide useful diagrams and explanations of basic maintenance.
Beyond just memorising answers, try to understand the 'why' behind each check. Why is it important to check your coolant level? Why do you need to know how to demist your windscreen? Understanding the safety implications will help you recall the information and provide more confident, meaningful answers during the test.
It is also beneficial to watch online videos or read articles that demonstrate these checks. Visual aids can reinforce what you are learning. However, always prioritise the guidance from your qualified instructor, as they can tailor advice to your specific learning needs and the vehicle you will be using.
Don't underestimate the power of self-testing. Ask a friend or family member to quiz you, or even quiz yourself. The more you rehearse, the more natural and automatic the responses will become, reducing anxiety on test day.
What If You Get a Question Wrong?
Understanding the consequences of incorrect answers for 'show me, tell me' questions is important for managing test day nerves.
It is vital to know that getting one or both of the 'show me, tell me' questions wrong will not automatically result in failing your driving test. For each incorrect answer, you will receive a minor driving fault. This means you would accumulate a fault for that specific question, similar to a minor fault you might receive for stalling or not checking your mirrors sufficiently.
A minor fault for a 'show me, tell me' question is not an automatic fail.
The DVSA states that you can accumulate up to 15 minor faults during your practical test without failing. However, if you accumulate 16 or more minor faults, or if you commit just one serious or dangerous fault, you will fail the test. Therefore, while you should aim to answer all questions correctly, a minor fault for a 'show me, tell me' question is not a disaster. It simply contributes to your overall fault count.
If you are unsure about an answer, it is better to give your best attempt rather than saying nothing. Sometimes, a partial answer might still earn you credit. If the examiner asks a 'show me' question and you are unable to safely demonstrate the control at that moment, inform the examiner that you will do so when it is safe. They will likely ask again when appropriate. If you still cannot perform it safely or correctly, it may result in a minor fault.
Your driving instructor will prepare you thoroughly to minimise the chances of getting these questions wrong. They will ensure you understand the correct answers and can perform the demonstrations safely. The goal is to build your confidence so that you can answer them correctly with ease.
If you do make a mistake on a 'show me, tell me' question, try not to dwell on it. Focus on your driving for the remainder of the test. The examiner will be assessing your overall driving performance, and one or two minor faults in this section are unlikely to be the sole reason for failure if your general driving is competent and safe.
Beyond 'Show Me, Tell Me': Other Practical Test Elements
While the 'show me, tell me' questions are a specific component, they are just one part of a comprehensive practical driving assessment.
The driving test is designed to assess your overall ability to drive safely and competently in various road and traffic conditions. The examiner is looking for you to demonstrate good control of the vehicle, safe decision-making, and awareness of your surroundings. This includes following the general speed limit, responding to traffic signals, and interacting with other road users.
The practical test evaluates your comprehensive driving ability, not just isolated knowledge.
The test typically includes:
- General Driving Ability: This is the main part of the test, where you will be asked to drive in different road and traffic conditions. You'll be expected to demonstrate your ability to handle junctions, roundabouts, and various types of roads.
- Reversing Exercises: You will be asked to perform one reversing manoeuvre. This could be bay parking (driving into a parking bay), pulling up on the right-hand side of the road and reversing for about two car lengths, or parallel parking.
- Independent Driving: For about 20 minutes, you will be asked to drive independently. This might involve following traffic signs or directions from a sat nav provided by the examiner. This section assesses your ability to make your own decisions and navigate safely without constant instruction.
The 'show me, tell me' questions, while important, are a smaller piece of the overall assessment. It is crucial to maintain focus on your actual driving throughout the test. The examiner will be observing your hazard perception, your ability to anticipate the actions of other road users, and your overall road safety awareness.
Your driving instructor will ensure you are prepared for all aspects of the test. They will help you refine your driving skills, practice manoeuvres, and develop the confidence needed for independent driving. Remember that the test is a measure of your readiness to drive independently on public roads, so demonstrating safe and considerate driving is paramount.
The DVSA aims for the practical test to be a fair and consistent assessment for all candidates. By preparing diligently for every element, including the 'show me, tell me' questions, you significantly increase your chances of success.
Understanding the Driving Test Process
Navigating the entire driving test process, from booking to completion, requires understanding its various stages and requirements.
Booking your practical driving test is typically done through the official DVSA website. You will need your provisional driving licence number and a valid payment method. The availability of test slots can vary significantly depending on the driving test centre and the time of year, so it is advisable to book well in advance, especially if you have a specific date in mind or are nearing the expiry of your theory test certificate.
A well-prepared candidate approaches the test with confidence, knowing the structure and expectations.
On the day of the test, you will need to arrive at the driving test centre with your provisional driving licence. The examiner will first conduct an eyesight check, asking you to read a vehicle number plate from a set distance. Then, the 'show me, tell me' questions will be asked, as detailed previously. Following this, you will proceed to the general driving assessment, which includes the reversing manoeuvre and independent driving section.
The duration of the practical test is typically around 40 minutes, with the independent driving section lasting about 20 minutes. The examiner will assess your performance based on a strict set of criteria, looking for any driving faults (minor, serious, or dangerous). At the end of the test, the examiner will provide you with feedback, indicating whether you have passed or failed, and detailing any faults you may have incurred.
If you pass, you will be issued with a pass certificate, and your full driving licence will usually be posted to you automatically. If you fail, the examiner will explain the reasons, and you will be advised on areas for improvement. You will need to wait a minimum period before you can rebook your test, so it's important to learn from the experience and practice further.
Understanding how much is a driving test can be found on the DVSA website, as prices are set by the government. Similarly, if you need to change a practical driving test date, this can also be managed via the official booking portal, usually with specific notice periods required.
The entire process is designed to ensure that only safe and competent drivers are granted a full licence, contributing to the overall safety of Britain's roads.