What Exactly Are the 'Show Me Tell Me' Questions?
The 'show me tell me' questions form a vital component of the practical driving test in the United Kingdom. Before or during the drive, the examiner will ask you two questions related to vehicle safety and maintenance. One question will be a 'show me' question, where you'll need to demonstrate your knowledge by physically showing the examiner something on the vehicle. The other will be a 'tell me' question, requiring you to explain how you would perform a specific safety check or what you would do in a given scenario.
These questions are designed to ensure you understand how to operate your vehicle safely and can carry out basic checks that contribute to roadworthiness and your own safety. Successfully answering these demonstrates a foundational understanding of vehicle care, which is as important as your driving skill itself. Passing this segment means you've ticked off a key requirement for your driving licence.
- Tests vehicle safety knowledge.
- Includes 'show me' and 'tell me' formats.
- Assessed by the driving examiner.
- Crucial for passing your practical test.
The 'Show Me' Component
For the 'show me' part of the questioning, the examiner will ask you to demonstrate how you would perform a particular safety check. This means you’ll need to physically interact with the car to show the required function or component. For instance, you might be asked to show how you would switch on the rear fog light. The key here is not just to know where the control is, but to be able to safely and correctly operate it. This often needs to be done while the engine is running, but the vehicle must be stationary and safe to do so. You won't be expected to operate anything that would compromise safety, like adjusting the steering wheel while driving.
The 'Tell Me' Component
The 'tell me' questions are purely verbal. The examiner will ask you to explain a safety procedure or your understanding of a vehicle safety aspect. For example, they might ask you to explain how you would check the tyre pressures on your vehicle. You need to articulate the steps involved clearly and accurately. This part assesses your theoretical knowledge and your ability to communicate it effectively. It's about understanding the 'why' and 'how' of vehicle maintenance, not just identifying a part. You will typically be asked a 'tell me' question at the start of the test, before you begin driving.
The purpose is to gauge your awareness of essential vehicle checks.
Why Are These Questions Important for Your Driving Test?
The driving test isn't solely about your ability to steer, brake, and navigate traffic. It’s a holistic assessment of your readiness to drive independently and safely. Vehicle safety checks are a fundamental part of responsible car ownership and operation. The 'show me tell me' questions assess your understanding of these critical aspects, ensuring you can maintain your vehicle to a safe standard and recognise potential issues. It's about promoting a proactive approach to safety, preventing potential breakdowns or accidents caused by neglect. This segment of the test is weighted, and while not a direct fail on its own, failing to answer them correctly can result in penalty points, potentially impacting your overall pass mark.
Common 'Show Me' Questions and How to Answer Them
To navigate the 'show me' questions successfully, you need to know the common requests and practise them. The examiner will look for clear, safe demonstrations. Remember, the car will likely be stationary, and the engine running, but you must ensure you can perform the action safely without causing a hazard. You'll be asked one 'show me' question during the test.
Examples of 'Show Me' Questions
Here are some typical 'show me' questions you might encounter:
- 'Show me' where you would find the information for the required tyre pressures for this car.
You should show the sticker located on the driver's side door pillar or frame, or in the vehicle's handbook. - 'Show me' how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer.
You would activate the windscreen washer stalk, demonstrating the fluid spray and wiper action. - 'Show me' how you would demist the front windscreen.
You would operate the demist button for the front windscreen, showing the fan speed and temperature controls being adjusted appropriately. - 'Show me' how you would turn on the rear fog light.
Locate and operate the switch for the rear fog light. - 'Show me' how you would switch on your dipped headlights.
Locate and operate the headlight switch or stalk to the correct position. - 'Show me' how you would check the brake lights.
You would operate the brake pedal and ask the examiner to check the lights, or use a reflection if available and safe. - 'Show me' how you would open the bonnet (hood).
You would locate and pull the bonnet release lever inside the car and then show how to operate the secondary catch under the bonnet. - 'Show me' how you would set the offside (driver's side) mirror.
You would adjust the mirror control to the driver's side and then move the mirror to show the correct view.
Practise these actions until they feel natural.
Key Considerations for 'Show Me' Questions
When demonstrating, ensure you do so safely. If asked to show how to operate a control, make sure you know its exact location and function. Don't fumble or appear unsure. For questions involving lights or wipers, you’ll typically need to activate them. For checks like tyre pressures, pointing to the correct location of the information is usually sufficient. The examiner is assessing your familiarity and confidence with the vehicle's controls and safety features. If you're unsure about a specific function on your test vehicle, ask your instructor to show you beforehand.
Common 'Tell Me' Questions and How to Answer Them
The 'tell me' questions assess your theoretical knowledge of vehicle safety and maintenance. You'll be asked one 'tell me' question at the start of your test, before you even start the engine. The examiner wants to hear a clear explanation of the process or check. You don't need to physically demonstrate anything for these.
Examples of 'Tell Me' Questions
Here are some frequently asked 'tell me' questions:
- 'Tell me' how you would check the tyres to ensure they are safe to use.
You would explain that you'd check for cuts, nicks, and bulges on the sidewalls, and ensure the tread depth is above the legal minimum (1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tread and around its entire circumference). You'd also mention checking for wear and tear across the tyre. - 'Tell me' how you would check the engine oil level.
You would explain that you'd park on level ground, wait for the engine to cool, pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, then pull it out again to check the oil level is between the minimum and maximum marks. - 'Tell me' how you would check the brake fluid level.
You would identify the brake fluid reservoir and explain that you'd check the level against the minimum and maximum markings. You would also mention looking for any leaks. - 'Tell me' how you would check the power steering fluid level.
Similar to brake fluid, you'd locate the reservoir and check the fluid level against the markings. You’d also explain that you’d check for leaks. - 'Tell me' how you would check the coolant level.
You would explain that this check should only be done when the engine is cold, locate the expansion tank, and check the level against the minimum and maximum markings. - 'Tell me' how you would check the battery and tell me what checks you would do.
You would explain that you'd check for any corrosion on the terminals, that the battery is securely fitted, and that the casing is not damaged. - 'Tell me' what checks you would do to ensure a safe load on your vehicle.
You'd explain that you'd ensure the weight is evenly distributed, secure the load properly with straps or ties, and check that it doesn't obscure your vision or prevent you from operating the controls. - 'Tell me' how you would check the headlights and taillights are working.
You would explain that you'd switch them on and walk around the vehicle to check they are all functioning correctly. You would also mention checking indicators and brake lights, possibly with the help of another person or by using reflections.
Clarity and completeness are key to a good answer.
Tips for Answering 'Tell Me' Questions
When answering, be precise. Don't just say 'check the oil'; explain *how* you would check it, including the condition of the dipstick and the expected level. Mentioning safety precautions, like checking coolant when the engine is cold, is also important. If you're not sure about a specific procedure, ask your driving instructor to clarify. It’s better to know the correct procedure thoroughly than to guess.
How the 'Show Me Tell Me' Questions Fit into the Driving Test
The 'show me tell me' questions are integrated into the practical driving test in a structured way. They are not a standalone section that can cause an outright fail, but they do contribute to your overall assessment and can result in minor driving faults (or 'drives') if answered incorrectly or not at all.
When Are They Asked?
You will typically be asked one 'tell me' question before you start driving. The examiner will ask this at the test centre, usually while you are seated in the car, but before you move off. The 'show me' question can be asked at any point while you are driving or when you are stationary.
The examiner will clearly state when they are asking a 'show me' or 'tell me' question.
Consequences of Incorrect Answers
If you fail to answer a 'tell me' question correctly, you will receive one driving fault. If you fail to answer a 'show me' question correctly (either by not knowing, or by demonstrating unsafely), you will also receive one driving fault. It is possible to receive up to 15 driving faults and still pass your test, provided none of them are 'serious' or 'dangerous' faults. However, accumulating too many driving faults, including those from the 'show me tell me' questions, can lead to a fail.
What If I Don't Know the Answer?
If you genuinely don't know the answer to a 'tell me' question, it's better to say so rather than guess incorrectly. You will receive a driving fault. For a 'show me' question, if you are unsure where a control is, the examiner might offer some gentle guidance, but you must still be able to demonstrate the function. If you cannot, you will receive a fault. Your driving instructor will have prepared you for the most common questions, so thorough revision is key.
Role in Overall Assessment
These questions are designed to ensure you have a basic understanding of vehicle safety. While they might seem minor compared to navigating complex junctions, they are an important part of demonstrating responsible driving. They highlight that a driver's awareness extends beyond just the road ahead to the condition and operation of the vehicle itself. Passing this part of the test shows you are a more well-rounded and safer driver.
Preparing for Your 'Show Me Tell Me' Questions
Effective preparation is key to confidently answering the 'show me tell me' questions. These aren't trick questions; they are designed to assess your knowledge and familiarity with your vehicle. By following a structured approach to revision, you can ensure you're ready for anything the examiner might ask.
Study the Official List
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) publishes official lists of 'show me tell me' questions. Your driving instructor will have access to these, and you should make them a core part of your revision. Focus on understanding the explanation for each 'tell me' question and practising the physical demonstration for each 'show me' question in the car you'll be using for your test.
Understanding is more important than rote memorisation.
Practical Application with Your Instructor
The best way to prepare is to practise with your driving instructor. Ask them to quiz you regularly. For 'show me' questions, ask them to prompt you at various points during your lessons. They can guide you on the safest way to demonstrate, for example, how to check the brake lights or clean the windscreen. They can also correct any misunderstandings you might have about vehicle checks.
Tip: Before your test, take a moment to familiarise yourself with the specific controls of the car you'll be using. Even if it's a familiar car, take a quick mental inventory of where essential controls like lights, wipers, and demisters are located.
Revising 'Tell Me' Explanations
For 'tell me' questions, don't just memorise words. Understand the reasoning behind each check. Why is it important to check the tyre tread depth? What could happen if the brake fluid is low? Explaining the 'why' will help you remember the 'how' and make your answers more convincing. You can even write down brief explanations for yourself or create flashcards.
Simulate Test Conditions
When you feel confident, try to simulate test conditions. Ask your instructor to ask you the questions unexpectedly during a lesson, or quiz yourself while waiting for your test to start. This helps to replicate the pressure of the actual test environment and builds confidence.
Vehicle Safety Checks Beyond 'Show Me Tell Me'
While the 'show me tell me' questions focus on specific demonstrations and explanations, they are part of a broader requirement for drivers to ensure their vehicle is safe. A responsible driver conducts regular checks on their vehicle, not just for the test, but for their own safety and the safety of others on the road.
Routine Checks
Beyond the questions asked during the test, there are other routine checks you should perform. These include checking your lights daily (headlights, brake lights, indicators), checking your windscreen for chips or cracks, ensuring your mirrors are correctly adjusted before you set off, and making sure your car's interior is free from clutter that could obstruct driving or become a projectile.
Consistent attention to vehicle condition is paramount.
Understanding Warning Lights
Modern vehicles have sophisticated warning light systems on the dashboard. Understanding what these lights mean is crucial. A red warning light usually indicates a serious issue that requires immediate attention, such as low oil pressure or an engine overheating. An amber or yellow warning light typically signifies a less urgent problem that still needs checking soon, like a faulty bulb or a problem with the anti-lock braking system (ABS).
Legal Requirements and Tyre Tread
The legal minimum tyre tread depth in the UK is 1.6 millimetres across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tread and around its entire circumference. Driving with less than this is illegal and dangerous, as it significantly reduces grip, especially in wet conditions. You can check this yourself using a tread depth gauge or even a 20p coin – if the outer band of the coin is visible when inserted into the tread, it's likely below the legal limit.
The Importance of Regular Servicing
Even with diligent daily checks, vehicles require professional maintenance. Regular servicing by a qualified mechanic ensures that critical components like brakes, engine, transmission, and suspension are inspected and maintained according to the manufacturer's recommendations. This proactive approach can prevent minor issues from becoming major, costly, and potentially dangerous problems.
Finding a Driving Test Centre and Booking Your Test
Successfully preparing for the 'show me tell me' questions is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to passing your driving test. Knowing how to book your test and where to take it are also essential steps in your journey towards obtaining a full driving licence.
Booking Your Practical Driving Test
In the UK, practical driving tests are booked through the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). You can book your test online via the official GOV.UK website. You will need your provisional driving licence number and a debit or credit card to pay the test fee. The fee for a standard weekday test can vary, so it's always best to check the current price on the GOV.UK website.
The official DVSA website is your sole source for booking.
Choosing a Driving Test Centre
When you book your test, you will be asked to select a driving test centre. There are centres located across the UK. It is generally advisable to choose a centre in an area you are familiar with, perhaps where you have had most of your driving lessons. This means you will be more comfortable with the local roads, junction types, and potential traffic situations that the examiner might choose for your test route. Your driving instructor can offer valuable advice on which centres might be more suitable based on their experience and knowledge of the local area.
Changing Your Test Date
Life can be unpredictable, and sometimes you may need to change your driving test date. The DVSA allows you to change your test date or time, provided you give sufficient notice. You can do this online through the GOV.UK website. There may be a fee associated with changing your test date, depending on how close it is to the original date. It’s important to check the DVSA’s policy on changing test dates to avoid losing your test fee.
What to Bring to Your Test
On the day of your test, you must bring your provisional driving licence. You will also need to bring the car you are using for the test, which must meet certain requirements (e.g., be taxed, insured for a driving test, and have a valid MOT if required). Ensure you have practised all the 'show me tell me' questions and are familiar with the vehicle's controls. Arriving at the test centre with your licence and a suitable vehicle is critical.
Frequently Asked Questions About 'Show Me Tell Me' Questions
The 'show me tell me' questions can be a source of anxiety for many learner drivers. Here, we address some of the most common queries to help clarify their role and how to prepare effectively.
Are 'Show Me Tell Me' Questions a Major Part of the Test?
They are an integral part of the practical driving test, assessing your vehicle safety knowledge. While they only contribute one driving fault each if answered incorrectly, they are still important. Failing to answer them can mean the difference between passing and failing if your other driving faults are close to the limit.
What Happens If I Can't Answer a 'Show Me' Question Safely?
If you are asked to 'show me' something and cannot do so safely (for instance, if it requires you to move the car in a way that is hazardous), you will receive a driving fault. The examiner prioritises safety, so they won't ask you to do anything dangerous. If you are unsure, it's better to explain that you would need to stop the car safely before demonstrating.
Can the Examiner Ask Me Any 'Show Me Tell Me' Question?
No, the DVSA provides a specific list of questions that examiners can ask. Your driving instructor will have access to these lists and will prepare you for all the possibilities. You will only be asked one 'tell me' question and one 'show me' question during your test.
Do I Need to Know About Engine Mechanics for 'Tell Me' Questions?
You do not need to be a mechanic. The questions focus on basic safety checks and your understanding of how to maintain your vehicle to a safe standard. For example, knowing how to check oil or coolant levels, and why it's important, is sufficient. You won't be asked about complex engine diagnostics.
What If I Answer a 'Tell Me' Question Correctly but Forget Something?
Examiners are looking for a reasonably comprehensive answer. If you forget a minor detail, it might result in a driving fault. However, if you cover the main points accurately, you might still pass that particular question. It reinforces the importance of thorough revision of the correct procedures.
How Many Questions Will I Be Asked?
You will be asked one 'tell me' question at the start of the test, and one 'show me' question either before or during the driving part of the test. In total, you will answer two questions related to vehicle safety checks.
Can I Ask the Examiner for Clarification?
Yes, if you don't understand a question, you can ask the examiner to repeat or clarify it. They will be happy to do so. However, they cannot help you with the answer itself.