DVSA Show Me Tell Me - Streetwise Driving School

Official DVSA Show Me / Tell Me Questions

Below is a list of the questions which will be asked on the test. The examiner will ask you two of 19 questions.

One of the questions will be “Show me,” and another will be “Tell me,” etc.

You cannot fail the driving test for getting the Show Me Tell Me to answer incorrectly. You will not fail the test if you answer them incorrectly or fail to answer them.

However, if you answer one or both of the Show Me Tell Me questions incorrectly, you will incur only one minor fault from a possible 15 or 16 minors or more on the driving test, which counts as a fail.

Show me how you would check that the direction indicators work.

Apply the hazard warning switch, walk around the car and check the functioning of all indicator bulbs. (Please note that indicator/hazard bulbs have two filaments. To effectively check them, use the Indicator stick; however, the Hazard lights are adequate for the test.)

Tell me how you would check that the brakes work before starting a journey.

Applying pressure to the brake pedal should not feel spongy or slack. The brakes should be tested as you set off, and the vehicle should not pull to one side.

Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level.

Identify the reservoir and explain how to check the level. If there is no level gauge, then top up regularly.

Show me how you would check that this car's brake lights work. (I can assist you; if you need to switch the ignition on, please don't start the engine)

Switch on the ignition (Do NOT start the engine). Apply pressure to the brake pedal and ask the examiner to check the bulbs. (If you are alone, you can use reflections in windows, garage doors, etc.)

Show me and explain how you would check that the power-assisted steering works before starting a journey.

Apply gentle pressure to the steering wheel; the wheel should be stiff. Maintain pressure while the engine is started; the wheel should become looser and more accessible to move. (Avoid dry steering)

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

The pressures are found in the manufacturer’s guide. Using a reliable pressure gauge, check the pressures when the tyres are cold, remember the spare tyre, and Re-fit the valve caps. Remember that the tyres should be adjusted accordingly if the vehicle is fully loaded. Refer to the manufacturer’s guide.

Show me how you would check the parking brake (handbrake) for excessive wear, make sure you keep safe control of the vehicle

Keep control by firmly applying the footbrake. Release the parking brake (handbrake) and then reapply it fully, ensuring it secures itself and is not at the end of the working trip.

Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine oil level, and tell me how to ensure the engine has sufficient oil.

Identify the dipstick and remove it. Clean the dipstick and replace it. Remove the dipstick and check the oil level against the minimum/maximum markers.

Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine coolant level and tell me how you would check that the engine has the correct level.

Locate the engine coolant. Check the level using the gauge on the side.

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

The head restraint should be adjusted so that the rigid part is level with your eyes and ears and as close to the back of the head as is comfortable. N.B. Some restraints might not be adjustable.

Open the bonnet, identify the brake fluid reservoir, and tell me how you would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid.

Locate the reservoir (Look for the (O) brake symbol, and check the level against Max/Min markings.

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

Ensure there are no cuts and bulges; tread depth should be 1.6mm across the outer circumference’s central ¾ (75%).

Show me how you check that the horn is working (off-road only).

Apply pressure to the horn (this is permitted in test centre car parks).

Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers.

Operate the control to wash and clear the windscreen (turn the ignition on if necessary)

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

Tell the examiner, “Turn on the lights, then walk around the vehicle.” (Note: this is a “Tell Me” question; there is no need to exit the vehicle to check the lights physically.)

Show me how you would set the demister controls to clear all the windows effectively; this should include both front and rear screens

Set all relevant controls, including fan, temperature, air direction and heated screen, to clear the windscreen and windows. You do not need to start the engine.

Show me how you would switch on the fog light(s) and explain when you would use it/them. (No need to exit vehicle)

Turn on dipped headlights, turn on the fog light switch, and check that the warning light is on. Lights should be used when visibility is less than 100 meters.

Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti-lock braking system (ABS)

An ABS warning light should illuminate if there is a fault. (This can be seen when the ignition is first switched on but should clear immediately)

Show me how you switch your headlight from dipped to the main beam and explain how you would know the main beam is on whilst inside the car

Switch on the Main beam, check using the warning light