What Are ‘Show Me, Tell Me’ Questions?

As part of your UK practical driving test, you’ll be asked two vehicle safety questions:

• Tell Me Question – Asked before you start driving. You’ll explain how to carry out a safety check.
• Show Me Question – Asked while driving. You’ll demonstrate how to perform a safety task safely.

These questions assess your understanding of basic car safety and your ability to operate your vehicle responsibly.

🗣️ ‘Tell Me’ Questions (14 Total)

These are asked before you begin driving. You’ll answer verbally.

1. Brakes – How you’d check that the brakes are working before starting a journey. Answer: Brakes shouldn’t feel spongy or slack. Test them as you set off. The vehicle shouldn’t pull to one side.
2. Tyre Pressures – Where to find the recommended tyre pressures and how to check them. Answer: Manufacturer’s guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check when tyres are cold, include the spare, refit valve caps.
3. Head Restraint – How to adjust it for best protection in a collision. Answer: The rigid part should be at eye level or the top of the ears, and close to the back of the head. Some may not be adjustable.
4. Tyre Tread & Condition – How to check tread depth and safety. Answer: No cuts or bulges. Minimum 1.6mm tread across the central three-quarters and the entire circumference.
5. Lights – How to check that headlights and tail lights are working. Answer: Operate the switch (ignition if needed), then walk around the vehicle.
6. ABS – How to know if there’s a problem with the anti-lock braking system. Answer: A warning light should illuminate if there’s a fault.
7. Indicators – How to check that direction indicators are working. Answer: Operate the switch (ignition if needed), then walk around the vehicle.
8. Brake Lights – How to check that brake lights are working. Answer: Press the brake pedal, use reflections or ask someone to check.
9. Power Steering – How to check it’s working before a journey. Answer: If the steering feels heavy, it may be faulty. Gentle pressure on the wheel while starting the engine should result in movement.
10. Rear Fog Lights – How to use them and when. Answer: Operate the switch (ignition if needed), check the warning light. Use when visibility is seriously reduced (less than 100 metres).
11. Headlights (Main Beam) – How to switch on and check the main beam. Answer: Operate the switch (ignition if needed), check the warning light.
12. Engine Oil – How to check the engine oil level. Answer: Identify the dipstick, check the oil level against the minimum and maximum markers.
13. Engine Coolant – How to check the coolant level. Answer: Identify the tank, check the level against the minimum and maximum markings.
14. Brake Fluid – How to check the brake fluid level. Answer: Identify the reservoir, check the level against the minimum and maximum markings.

👋 ‘Show Me’ Questions (7 Total)

These are asked while driving. You’ll demonstrate the action safely.

1. Windscreen Wash – Show how to wash and clean the front windscreen.
2. Rear Screen Wash – Show how to wash and clean the rear windscreen.
3. Demister (Front) – Show how to set the demister for the front windscreen.
4. Demister (Rear) – Show how to set the demister for the rear windscreen.
5. Side Window – Show how to open and close a side window.
6. Horn – Show how to operate the horn.
7. Headlights – Show how to switch on dipped headlights.

✅ Tips for Success

• Practise each question with your instructor.
• Familiarise yourself with your test vehicle’s controls.
• Stay calm and focused — especially during the ‘Show Me’ question while driving.
• Remember: clarity and safety are key.

📘 Learn More

For official guidance, visit the DVSA website or check out the full list on DrivingTest.co.uk.

You can find more practical test information in my learner driver FAQs and learn about an independent practical test readiness assessment.