Before your UK driving test, the examiner will ask you two vehicle safety questions known as the Show Me, Tell Me questions. One question is asked at the start of the test and one while you are driving. These questions check that you understand basic car safety, maintenance and controls.
Learn all 19 official DVSA Show Me Tell Me questions and answers below to help you pass your driving test with confidence.

DVSA Show Me Tell Me Questions and Answers

The Show Me Tell Me questions are an important part of the UK practical driving test. The examiner will ask two vehicle safety questions to check your knowledge of basic car maintenance and safety checks.

You will be asked:

• One “Tell Me” question at the start of the driving test (explain how you would check something).
• One “Show Me” question during the driving part of the test (demonstrate using a control safely while driving).

These questions are set by the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) and help ensure new drivers understand how to keep their vehicle safe and roadworthy.

On this page you will find all 19 official DVSA Show Me Tell Me questions and answers, helping you prepare for your driving test and avoid unnecessary driving faults.

Practising these questions with your driving instructor will help improve your confidence and increase your chances of passing your driving test first time.

All 19 Official Show Me Tell Me Questions & Answers

Tell Me Questions (asked before driving)

1. Tell me how you would check the brakes are working before starting a journey.

Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. They should be tested as you set off. The vehicle should not pull to one side.

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

You can find this in the vehicle manufacturer’s guide. Check using a reliable pressure gauge when tyres are cold. Ensure correct pressure for the load and replace the valve caps.

3. Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted.

The rigid part of the head restraint should be level with the eyes or top of the ears and as close to the back of the head as possible.

4. Tell me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are working.

Turn on the lights using the switch and walk around the vehicle to check they are working.

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

A warning light will stay illuminated on the dashboard if there is a fault.

6. Tell me how you would check the direction indicators are working.

Activate the indicators and check visually by walking around the vehicle or by using reflections.

7. Tell me how you would check the tyre tread depth and condition.

Tyres should have at least 1.6mm tread depth across the central three-quarters of the tyre and around the entire circumference. There should be no cuts or bulges.

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

Test them as you set off. They should not feel spongy and the vehicle should not pull to one side.

9. Tell me how you would check the power steering is working before starting a journey.

Apply gentle pressure to the steering wheel while starting the engine. Slight movement should be felt as the system begins to operate.

10. Tell me how you would switch on the rear fog lights and explain when you would use them.

Operate the switch (driver should demonstrate). Use when visibility is seriously reduced, generally when you cannot see more than 100 metres.

11. Tell me how you would switch your headlights from dipped to main beam and explain how you would know they are on.

Operate the switch and check for the blue warning light on the dashboard.

12. Tell me how you would check the engine has sufficient oil.

Locate the dipstick, remove it, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully and remove it again to check the oil level is between the minimum and maximum marks.

13. Tell me how you would check the engine has sufficient engine coolant.

Locate the coolant reservoir and ensure the level is between the minimum and maximum marks.

14. Tell me how you would check the horn is working.

Press the horn briefly (only when it is safe to do so).

Show Me Questions (asked while driving)

15. Show me how you would wash and clean the rear windscreen.

Operate the rear windscreen washer control.

16. Show me how you would wash and clean the front windscreen.

Operate the front windscreen washer control.

17. Show me how you would switch on the dipped headlights.

Operate the headlight control.

18. Show me how you would set the rear demister.

Operate the rear demister button.

19. Show me how you would operate the horn.

Press the horn safely.

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