Show me, tell me questions and answers

During your practical test you'll be asked two vehicle safety questions:

• one "tell me" question at the start, before you drive
• one "show me" question while you're driving

Getting a question wrong is usually one driving fault. Your instructor will practise these with you, but here's what to expect. The examiner's exact wording may differ slightly; check the official list on GOV.UK.

#Tell me questions

How would you check the brakes are working before starting a journey? Brakes shouldn't feel spongy or slack. Test them as you set off: the car shouldn't pull to one side.

Where would you find the information for the recommended tyre pressures, and how should they be checked? In the manufacturer's guide (often also on a label inside the driver's door or fuel cap). Use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust them when the tyres are cold, don't forget the spare, and refit the valve caps.

How would you check the head restraint is correctly adjusted? The rigid part of the restraint should be at least as high as your eyes or the top of your ears, and as close to the back of your head as is comfortable. (Some restraints can't be adjusted.)

How would you check the tyres have enough tread depth and are in good general condition? No cuts or bulges, and at least 1.6mm of tread across the central three-quarters of the tyre and around its entire circumference.

How would you check the headlights and tail lights are working? Switch them on (turning the ignition on if needed), then walk round the car to look.

How would you know if there was a problem with the anti-lock braking system? The ABS warning light on the dashboard would stay on.

How would you check the direction indicators are working? Switch on the hazard warning lights and walk round the car to check every indicator.

How would you check the brake lights are working? Press the brake pedal and use reflections in windows or garage doors, or ask someone to help.

How would you check the power-assisted steering is working before a journey? If the steering becomes heavy, it may not be working. Before starting a journey, apply gentle pressure to the steering wheel while you start the engine: it should move slightly as the system starts to work.

How would you switch on the rear fog light(s), and when would you use them? Operate the switch (turning on dipped headlights and the ignition if needed) and check the warning light. Use them when visibility is seriously reduced, generally to less than 100 metres.

How would you switch your headlights from dipped to main beam, and how would you know main beam is on? Operate the switch (with the ignition or engine on if needed) and check the main beam warning light.

How would you check the engine has enough oil? Use the dipstick or the electronic gauge to check the level is between the minimum and maximum marks. Know where to top up the oil.

How would you check the engine has enough coolant? Look at the high and low level markings on the coolant reservoir under the bonnet, and top up if needed.

How would you check you have enough brake fluid? Look at the high and low markings on the brake fluid reservoir under the bonnet.

#Show me questions

You'll be asked to do one of these while you're driving. Take your time, keep the car under control, and only do it when it's safe.

• When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the rear windscreen?
• When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the front windscreen?
• When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd switch on your dipped headlights?
• When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd set the rear demister?
• When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd operate the horn?
• When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd demist the front windscreen?
• When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd open and close the side window?

#Tips

• Learn the controls of your test car. If you're testing in your instructor's car, practise every show me question in that car.
• Answer out loud, in your own words. You don't need the exact wording.
• Keep driving well. A show me question is also a test of control: keep checking the road and only take a hand off the wheel when it's safe.