What Are 'Show Me, Tell Me' Questions?
The 'show me, tell me' questions are a crucial component of the practical driving test in the United Kingdom, introduced to ensure drivers have a foundational understanding of vehicle operation and safety checks. During the test, the examiner will ask you two questions: one 'show me' question and one 'tell me' question. These are designed not to trick you, but to verify your knowledge of how to operate your vehicle safely and what checks you should perform before driving.
The 'tell me' question is asked at the start of the test, before you begin driving. The examiner will ask you to explain how you would carry out a safety check or identify a component of your vehicle. The 'show me' question is asked while you are driving. The examiner will ask you to demonstrate how you would operate a control or carry out a safety check on the vehicle, without needing to stop the car. Passing this section is not a separate pass/fail criterion for the test itself; instead, getting one or both wrong results in penalty points. However, demonstrating competence here is a strong indicator of your overall readiness to drive safely.
- Tests understanding of vehicle safety checks.
- One 'show me' and one 'tell me' question asked.
- 'Tell me' asked before driving, 'show me' while driving.
- Incorrect answers incur minor driving faults.
- Demonstrates awareness of car controls and maintenance.
Understanding the Purpose Behind the Questions
The primary aim of the 'show me, tell me' questions is to gauge your awareness of basic vehicle maintenance and safety. It’s not about being a mechanic; it’s about understanding the fundamental operations and checks that contribute to safe driving. For instance, knowing how to demist your windscreen, check your tyre pressures, or locate your engine oil level are all essential for ensuring your vehicle is roadworthy and safe to operate in various conditions. The examiner wants to see that you can identify potential issues and know how to rectify them or understand their implications.
This part of the test also serves to familiarise you with the controls of the car you are using for your test, whether it's your instructor's vehicle or your own. Many candidates take their test in a car they are very familiar with, but the questions ensure they can articulate and demonstrate their knowledge even under the pressure of the test environment. It’s a vital step in transitioning from a learner to a responsible, independent driver.
How Incorrect Answers Are Treated
It is important to note that getting 'show me, tell me' questions wrong does not automatically mean you fail the driving test. Instead, each incorrect answer will result in one minor driving fault being added to your test report. A driving test is failed by accumulating 16 or more minor faults, or by committing one serious or dangerous fault. Therefore, while it is beneficial to answer these questions correctly, a minor fault here is unlikely to be the sole reason for failing, provided your overall driving is safe and competent. However, aiming to answer them correctly demonstrates a higher level of preparedness and understanding.
The 'Tell Me' Questions: What to Expect
The 'tell me' question is presented to you by the examiner before you even start the engine. You'll be asked to explain how you would perform a specific safety check or identify a particular part or function of the vehicle. For example, an examiner might ask: 'Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before you set off.' Your answer should focus on the actions you would take and what you would be looking for.
A good answer to the brakes question, for instance, would involve stating that you would first 'press the brake pedal' and then 'it should feel firm and not spongey', and additionally, 'the car should not pull to one side when you gently apply the brake'. This demonstrates an understanding of the function and a method of checking its operational status. The key is to be clear, concise, and demonstrate a practical understanding of the safety aspect.
Common 'Tell Me' Questions and How to Answer Them
examiners commonly ask about fluid levels, tyre condition, and warning lights. Here are some typical 'tell me' questions and how you might respond:
- 'Tell me where you would find the information for the required tyre pressures for this car and how you would check the tyre pressures.'
Answer: 'I would check the vehicle's manual or the sticker on the driver's door pillar for the recommended tyre pressures. To check the pressure, I would use a reliable tyre pressure gauge on each tyre when they are cold, ensuring the gauge reads accurately.' - 'Tell me how you would check the engine oil level.'
Answer: 'I would park on a level surface, switch off the engine, wait for it to cool slightly, then pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, pull it out again, and check that the oil level is between the minimum and maximum marks.' - 'Tell me how you would check that your headlights and tail lights are working.'
Answer: 'I would turn the ignition on, then switch on the relevant lights. I would then walk around the vehicle to check that the headlights (dipped and main beam) and tail lights are illuminated. I'd also check the brake lights by pressing the brake pedal and observing them, perhaps in a reflection.' - 'Tell me how you would check the tread depth and condition of your tyres.'
Answer: 'I would check that the tyres are free from cuts or bulges, and that the tread depth is above the legal minimum of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tyre, and down to the wear indicators.' - 'Tell me what checks you would make to ensure that your windscreen and windows are in a safe condition.'
Answer: 'I would check for any chips or cracks in the windscreen that could impair my vision or potentially spread. I'd also ensure all windows are clean and clear, allowing for good visibility in all directions, and that the demisting and defrosting systems work.'
Remember, the examiner is looking for a clear explanation of the procedure and an understanding of why the check is important. Focusing on safety and clarity is key.
Preparing for the 'Tell Me' Questions
To prepare effectively for the 'tell me' questions, it is advisable to familiarise yourself with the controls and safety features of the car you will be using for your test. Many driving schools provide lists of common 'tell me' questions, and your instructor will likely cover these during your lessons. Practising your answers aloud, perhaps with a friend or family member, can help solidify your knowledge and build confidence. Ensure you understand the 'why' behind each check, not just the 'how'.
The 'Show Me' Questions: Demonstrating Practicality
The 'show me' question is asked while you are driving, and it requires you to demonstrate the operation of a specific car control or safety feature without needing to stop the vehicle. This assesses your ability to multitask and operate essential functions safely while maintaining awareness of the road. For example, an examiner might ask: 'Show me how you would demist your windscreen.'
Your response should involve clearly indicating and operating the relevant controls. For demisting, you would show how to turn on the fan, direct the airflow to the windscreen, and adjust the temperature and speed settings as necessary. The examiner is looking for you to correctly identify and use the controls efficiently. It’s about demonstrating that you know where the controls are and how they function, all while continuing to drive safely.
Common 'Show Me' Questions and Demonstrations
These questions often relate to visibility, signalling, and heating/cooling systems. Here are some common 'show me' questions and how to answer them:
- 'Show me how you would switch on the rear fog light(s) and then switch them off.'
Demonstration: 'I would locate the switch for the rear fog lights, press it to turn it on, and then press it again to turn it off.' (Ensure you know which symbol represents the fog light). - 'Show me how you would set the windscreen wipers to work.'
Demonstration: 'I would locate the wiper stalk and move it to the appropriate position to activate the wipers, perhaps demonstrating different speeds if applicable and safe to do so.' - 'Show me how you would clean the windscreen.'
Demonstration: 'I would use the windscreen wiper stalk to activate the washers and wipers, ensuring the screen is cleared.' - 'Show me how you would demist the front windscreen.'
Demonstration: 'I would locate and operate the controls for the demist function, typically by adjusting the fan speed, directing airflow to the front windscreen, and setting the temperature.' - 'Show me how you would open the side window.'
Demonstration: 'I would locate the electric window switch for the driver's door and press it down to lower the window to a suitable level.'
Crucially, you must be able to perform these actions without causing your driving to become hazardous. If the examiner asks you to show them something that requires you to stop safely (e.g., checking a light bulb), they will instruct you to pull over. However, most 'show me' questions are designed to be answered while moving.
What Examiners Are Looking For
When you are asked a 'show me' question, the examiner is observing your ability to locate and operate controls smoothly and safely while maintaining road awareness. They want to see that you are not distracted by the task, that you can find the correct control without fumbling, and that you operate it effectively. A smooth, confident operation demonstrates that you are comfortable with the vehicle's systems and can manage them without compromising your driving.
It is essential to practice these actions during your driving lessons. Your instructor will guide you on the best way to demonstrate each control. The aim is to show that you can identify the correct control, operate it correctly, and then return your focus immediately to the road ahead. For instance, when showing how to demist, you would explain your actions as you perform them, such as 'I'm turning on the fan and directing it to the front screen to improve visibility'.
Common 'Show Me, Tell Me' Questions and Preparation
To excel in the 'show me, tell me' section of your driving test, thorough preparation is key. While the specific questions can vary, there's a core set of checks and controls that most candidates are expected to know. Familiarising yourself with these common questions and practising your responses both verbally and practically will significantly boost your confidence and performance.
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), which sets the standards for driving tests in Great Britain, publishes official guidance on these questions. It’s always advisable to consult the most up-to-date information from the DVSA website to ensure you are covering all the necessary points. Your driving instructor will also have a wealth of experience in preparing students for this part of the test and will likely provide you with comprehensive lists and practice sessions.
A Comprehensive List of Potential Questions
Here is a more extensive list of 'show me, tell me' questions, covering a range of vehicle checks and controls. Remember to tailor your answers to the specific vehicle you are using for your test.
'Tell Me' Questions:
- 'Tell me how you would check that your power steering is working.' (Answer: 'The steering should feel light when the engine is running.')
- 'Tell me how you would check that your headlights are working.' (Answer: 'Turn on ignition, switch on lights, walk around car to check them.')
- 'Tell me how you would check that your brake lights are working.' (Answer: 'Operate brake pedal, use reflections in windows or ask examiner/passer-by to check.')
- 'Tell me how you would check the condition of the brakes.' (Answer: 'The brake pedal should feel firm and not spongy. The car should not pull to one side when braking.')
- 'Tell me how you would check that the indicators are working.' (Answer: 'Turn on ignition, operate the indicator switch, and check that the lights flash on the dashboard and externally.')
- 'Tell me where you would check for the recommended tyre pressures and how you would check them.' (Answer: 'Vehicle manual or sticker on door pillar. Check when tyres are cold with a reliable gauge.')
- 'Tell me how you would check that the horn is working.' (Answer: 'Press the horn button. Listen for the sound.')
'Show Me' Questions:
- 'Show me how you would operate the horn.' (Demonstrate pressing the horn button).
- 'Show me how you would de-mist the rear window.' (Demonstrate operating the rear demister control).
- 'Show me how you would open the bonnet.' (Demonstrate pulling the bonnet release lever inside the car, then securing it with the secondary catch).
- 'Show me where the windscreen washer reservoir is and how you would check the level.' (Demonstrate locating the reservoir, opening it, and checking the fluid level).
Effective Preparation Strategies
Beyond memorising answers, the most effective preparation involves hands-on practice. If you're using your own car or a family member's, take the time to sit in it and physically locate and operate each control. Understand what each symbol represents and how to use the associated functions. If you are using a driving school car, your instructor will be your best resource.
Actively ask your instructor to quiz you on these questions during lessons, and request that they ask you to demonstrate the 'show me' actions while you are driving. This repetition, combined with understanding the safety rationale behind each check, will make your answers more natural and your demonstrations more confident. It also helps embed the knowledge, making you a safer driver long after you pass your test.
Integrating 'Show Me, Tell Me' into Driving Habits
The 'show me, tell me' questions are more than just a hurdle to overcome on your driving test; they are designed to instill good driving habits and a proactive approach to vehicle safety. The knowledge and skills you demonstrate here should ideally become second nature, integrated into your regular driving routine.
Think of the 'tell me' questions as prompts for your pre-drive checks. Before setting off on any journey, even a short one, mentally running through key checks – like tyre condition, fluid levels (if you have the habit), and ensuring all lights are functional – is a sign of a responsible driver. Similarly, the 'show me' actions, such as clearing your windscreen or adjusting your mirrors, are fundamental to safe driving and should be performed instinctively as needed.
Making Vehicle Checks Part of Your Routine
Many of the 'tell me' questions relate to checks that should be performed regularly. While you won't be expected to perform a full engine check every time you get in the car, developing a habit of quick, visual checks can prevent issues from escalating.
- Tyre pressures: While not necessarily weekly, getting into the habit of checking tyre pressures monthly, or before long journeys, is advisable. You can also perform a quick visual check for obvious deflation or damage before each drive.
- Fluid levels: Regularly checking engine oil and screenwash levels is good practice. Many cars have dashboard warnings for critical low levels, but a periodic manual check is wise.
- Lights and indicators: A quick walk-around check of your lights and indicators before driving in poor visibility or darkness, or before a long trip, can save a lot of trouble.
By incorporating these checks into your routine, you not only prepare for the test but also ensure your vehicle is always in the safest possible condition. This proactive mindset is exactly what the DVSA aims to foster.
The 'Show Me' Actions as Reflexes
Similarly, the 'show me' actions should become instinctive responses to changing conditions or needs while driving.
- Windscreen wipers and washers: Instantly knowing how to clear your windscreen in rain or spray is vital for visibility.
- Demisting: Being able to quickly clear a steamy windscreen, front or rear, prevents dangerous blind spots.
- Lighting controls: Knowing how to operate headlights, fog lights, and indicators without looking away from the road for extended periods is crucial for safety and communication.
Cultivating these habits transforms test preparation into genuine driver competence.
Beyond the Test: Continuous Safety Awareness
The 'show me, tell me' questions are a gateway to becoming a safe, conscientious driver. They highlight the importance of understanding your vehicle's basic functions and maintaining its safety. After passing your test, continue to be aware of your vehicle's condition. Pay attention to any warning lights on the dashboard, unusual noises, or changes in how the car drives. Regular servicing as recommended by the manufacturer is also essential for keeping your vehicle in good working order and ensuring its safety.
Remember, the goal is not just to pass the test, but to drive safely for life. The principles behind the 'show me, tell me' questions are fundamental to achieving this. By internalising these checks and operations, you become a more confident and responsible road user.
Understanding Driving Test Faults and Scoring
It's important to understand how the 'show me, tell me' questions fit into the broader scoring system of the practical driving test. While they are a distinct part of the assessment, their impact is categorised alongside your on-road driving performance. The DVSA uses a system of minor, serious, and dangerous faults to determine whether a candidate passes or fails.
As mentioned, a correct answer to a 'show me, tell me' question results in no faults. However, an incorrect answer, whether for the 'show me' or 'tell me' question, will result in one minor driving fault being recorded. This means that if you get both questions wrong, you will receive two minor faults for this section alone. These faults are then added to any minor faults accumulated during the main driving part of the test.
The Fault System Explained
The DVSA defines faults as follows:
- Minor Faults: These are faults where the examiner considers a defect in your driving. They represent a lapse in concentration or judgment but do not pose a danger to yourself or others. You can accumulate up to 15 minor faults and still pass.
- Serious Faults: These are faults where a defect in your driving, or the vehicle, is potentially dangerous. If the examiner considers a fault to be serious, you will fail the test immediately.
- Dangerous Faults: These are faults where your driving, or the vehicle, is actually dangerous, causing immediate danger to yourself, the examiner, or other road users. A dangerous fault will also result in an immediate fail.
The 'show me, tell me' questions contribute only to the minor fault count. For instance, if you make one mistake while driving that earns a minor fault, and you also answer one 'show me, tell me' question incorrectly, you will have a total of two minor faults recorded.
When Do 'Show Me, Tell Me' Questions Lead to a Fail?
Directly answering a 'show me, tell me' question incorrectly will not cause you to fail the test on its own. It simply adds one minor fault to your record. However, the cumulative effect is significant. If your driving during the test also accrues 15 minor faults, then adding the one or two minor faults from the 'show me, tell me' section would push your total to 16 or 17, resulting in a fail. More critically, if your attempt to answer a 'show me' question while driving causes you to create a dangerous situation (e.g., swerving, braking sharply without reason, or failing to check mirrors), the examiner might deem that action a serious or dangerous fault, which *would* lead to an immediate fail, irrespective of your other performance.
Always prioritise road safety above answering the question perfectly. If demonstrating a control would be unsafe, wait for a safe moment or inform the examiner that you cannot safely demonstrate it at that precise moment without stopping.
Calculating Your Test Result
Your overall test result is determined by the total number of faults accumulated. The examiner will tally all faults recorded throughout the test, including those from the 'show me, tell me' questions. A clean sheet for the 'show me, tell me' section, combined with excellent driving, will give you the best chance of passing. However, understanding that one or two minor faults here are not catastrophic can help reduce test day nerves.
It's worth noting that the DVSA periodically updates the list of potential 'show me, tell me' questions. Always ensure you are preparing with the most current information available, typically found on the official GOV.UK website. Your driving instructor will be well-versed in these updates and will guide you accordingly.
Vehicle Specifics and Test Centre Variations
The 'show me, tell me' questions are designed to be general enough to apply to most modern vehicles used for driving tests, but there can be variations depending on the specific car you use. The examiner will base their questions on the vehicle you present for your test. This means it's crucial to be familiar with the car you will be driving on the day.
If you are using a driving school car, your instructor will ensure you are well-versed in its particular features and controls. If you are using a private car, it is your responsibility to ensure it meets the required standards and that you know its operation intimately. This includes understanding where all the relevant controls are located and how they function, especially those related to safety and visibility.
Familiarity with Your Test Vehicle
The DVSA states that the 'show me' questions will be asked in a way that relates to the car you are taking the test in. For example, if the car has an automatic demist function, the question might be phrased as 'Show me how you would activate the demist function for the front windscreen'. If the car has manual controls, the question might be more direct about operating the fan and directing the air.
- Manual vs. Automatic Controls: Be aware of whether your car uses manual levers, rotary dials, or touch-screen interfaces for functions like wipers, lights, and climate control.
- Dashboard Layout: Know the general layout of your dashboard. Where are the main clusters of buttons and switches for lights, wipers, and heating?
- Specific Features: Does your car have unique features like automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, or a specific sequence for activating fog lights?
Knowing your test vehicle inside and out is the most reliable way to handle any variation in 'show me, tell me' questions.
Do Test Centres Differ?
The 'show me, tell me' questions themselves do not differ between test centres. The DVSA sets the national standard for all driving tests. However, the *type* of vehicles commonly used by candidates in a particular area might influence the specific examples your local instructors use. For instance, if a particular test centre is in an area where many people drive smaller, older cars, instructors might focus more on questions relevant to those. Conversely, if automatic transmission cars are more prevalent, the questions might lean towards their specific controls.
The underlying principles remain the same: understand basic vehicle operation, safety checks, and how to use essential controls. The examiner will always adapt the question to the vehicle you are using. Therefore, the best approach is to prepare using the official DVSA guidance and your instructor's expertise, focusing on the general categories of questions and applying them to your specific test vehicle.
What If You Don't Know the Vehicle?
If you are taking your test in a vehicle you are not entirely familiar with, it is imperative to spend time with it before the test. Ask your instructor to spend a lesson specifically going through all the controls and safety features. Try to simulate the 'show me' actions while driving under supervision. If you are using a private car, ensure the owner or a knowledgeable person can walk you through everything. A little extra time spent familiarising yourself can prevent costly minor faults.
The DVSA wants to see that you can operate a vehicle safely and competently. This includes knowing how to manage its basic functions. Don't hesitate to ask your instructor to clarify anything you are unsure about. A clear understanding of your test vehicle is fundamental to succeeding in the 'show me, tell me' section and, more importantly, to becoming a safe driver.
Advanced Tips for Mastering 'Show Me, Tell Me'
While many candidates focus on memorising lists of questions and answers, mastering the 'show me, tell me' section involves a deeper understanding and a more integrated approach. It’s about demonstrating not just knowledge, but also the practical application of that knowledge in a safe and efficient manner, all while navigating the demands of a driving test.
The key to truly mastering these questions lies in making them a natural part of your driving preparation and practice. This goes beyond rote learning and involves developing a genuine awareness of your vehicle's safety features and operational controls. The more you can integrate these checks and actions into your regular driving, the more confident and competent you will feel on test day.
Practice Under Test Conditions
During your lessons, ask your driving instructor to conduct mock tests. This should include 'show me, tell me' questions delivered in the same way the examiner would. Practising these under simulated pressure helps you get used to recalling the information and performing the actions correctly when you are nervous. It also helps you understand how to transition smoothly back to driving after demonstrating a control.
- Vary the timing: Ask your instructor to prompt you for 'show me' questions at different points during the drive – on straight roads, during turns, or even in slightly more complex traffic situations.
- Vary the questions: Ensure you are quizzed on a wide range of potential questions, not just a few favourites.
- Simulate incorrect answers: Deliberately get a question wrong (e.g., point to the wrong control) during practice to see how your instructor guides you on the correct way to answer and what the consequence would be.
Understanding the 'Why'
It is never enough to simply know 'how' to do something; you must also understand 'why' it's important. For example, when checking tyre tread, don't just state the legal limit. Explain that insufficient tread reduces grip, especially in wet conditions, increasing the risk of aquaplaning and skidding. This depth of understanding demonstrates a more thorough grasp of road safety principles.
Connect each 'show me, tell me' point to its safety implication. This not only makes your answers more robust but also helps you remember the information more effectively.
Beyond the Basics: Proactive Checks
While the test focuses on specific questions, a truly advanced driver thinks proactively about vehicle safety. This includes:
- Listening to your car: Are there any unusual noises? A grinding sound from brakes, a squeal from a belt?
- Observing dashboard warnings: What does the oil pressure light mean? What about the engine management light?
- Feeling the drive: Does the car pull to one side? Does the steering feel loose?
These are the kinds of observations that separate a competent driver from an excellent one. While not directly tested, cultivating this awareness will make you a safer driver in the long run.
Dealing with Unfamiliar Cars
If you find yourself in a situation where you must take the test in an unfamiliar car, here’s what you can do:
- Request a lesson in that specific car: If possible, arrange a lesson in the actual vehicle you will be using for the test.
- Study the manual: If you have access to the car beforehand, spend time reading its owner's manual, focusing on the sections covering controls, lights, wipers, and safety checks.
- Ask your instructor for a general overview: Even if the car is not a school vehicle, your instructor can often give you a general rundown of common control types and where they are usually located.
By applying these advanced tips, you'll not only be better prepared for the 'show me, tell me' questions but also on your way to becoming a more skilled and responsible driver.
What About Related Driving Test Queries?
The 'show me, tell me' questions are just one aspect of the comprehensive practical driving test. Many candidates also have questions about other parts of the test, such as booking, duration, costs, and potential issues like cancellations or recalls. Understanding these related queries can provide a fuller picture of the driving test process.
For instance, if you're wondering how much a driving test costs or how long it typically takes, these are common concerns. The DVSA sets the official fees, which can vary slightly depending on whether you book a weekday or an evening/weekend test. The practical driving test itself has a standard duration, typically around 40 minutes for most car tests, although this can be extended if the examiner needs more time to assess your driving thoroughly.
Booking and Changing Your Test
Booking a practical driving test is done through the official GOV.UK website. You will need your provisional driving licence number and a debit or credit card to pay the fee. Availability can vary significantly depending on the test centre, with some locations having waiting times of several weeks or even months.
If you need to change your practical driving test date, you can do this online through the same GOV.UK portal. You will need to provide your driving licence number and test booking reference. There are rules about how close to your test date you can change it; typically, you need to give at least three working days' notice. Failing to do so might mean you forfeit your test fee.
Test Centre Information and Availability
Each driving test centre has its own local demand, which affects availability. Some centres are busier than others, and popular times, like weekend tests or tests during school holidays, can be booked up far in advance. You can search for test centres near you on the GOV.UK website. When you book, you'll be shown the available dates and times for your chosen centre.
Cancellations and Refunds
Driving test cancellations can occur for various reasons, including examiner strikes or vehicle issues at the test centre. If your test is cancelled by the DVSA with less than three clear working days' notice, you are usually entitled to a full refund or to rebook your test for free. If you need to cancel or change your test yourself, you must do so at least three working days before your scheduled test to get a refund or rebook without penalty. Specific circumstances, like illness, might allow for exceptions, but this usually requires proof.
Understanding the rules around test bookings and cancellations helps avoid lost fees and ensures a smoother process.
Test Duration and Content
The practical driving test typically lasts about 40 minutes. During this time, you will be assessed on your general driving ability, including your hazard perception and awareness, vehicle control, and your ability to drive independently. The test includes:
- General driving: Driving in various road and traffic conditions.
- Reversing manoeuvre: Such as bay parking, pulling up on the right, or parallel parking.
- Independent driving: Following traffic signs or directions from a sat nav (for about 20 minutes).
- 'Show me, tell me' questions: As discussed, these are integrated into the test.
The length can vary; if you have an extended test (e.g., for drivers who previously held a licence from abroad or for certain medical conditions), it will take longer. The examiner will provide clear instructions throughout the test.
By familiarising yourself with these related aspects of the driving test, you can approach your entire driving test journey with more confidence and clarity.