Question 1
Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.
Answer: Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. The vehicle should not pull to one side.
2026 DVSA Test Guide
Show Me, Tell Me Questions
The complete list of all 14 Tell Me and 7 Show Me vehicle safety questions asked on the UK practical driving test, with clear photos and the model answers our City Driving School instructors teach.
Tell Me Questions
Asked at the start of your test, before you start driving. The examiner will ask one of the following 14 questions.
Question 2
Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.
Answer: Manufacturer's guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, don't forget the spare tyre, remember to refit valve caps.
Question 3
Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash.
Answer: The head restraint should be adjusted so the rigid part of the head restraint is at least as high as the eye or top of the ears, and as close to the back of the head as is comfortable.
Question 4
Tell me how you would check that the tyres have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road.
Answer: No cuts or bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central three quarters of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire circumference.
Question 5
Tell me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are working.
Answer: Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), then walk round the vehicle. (As this is a 'tell me' question, you don't need to actually exit the vehicle.)
Question 6
Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti-lock braking system.
Answer: Warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti-lock braking system.
Question 7
Tell me how you would check the direction indicators are working.
Answer: Apply the indicators or hazard warning switch and check functioning of all indicators. (You may need to switch the ignition on.)
Question 8
Tell me how you would check the brake lights are working on this car.
Answer: Operate the brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors etc., or ask someone to help.
Question 9
Tell me how you would check the power-assisted steering is working before starting a journey.
Answer: If the steering becomes heavy the system may not be working properly. Before starting a journey, two simple checks can be made. Gentle pressure on the steering wheel, maintained while the engine is started, should result in a slight but noticeable movement as the system begins to operate. Alternatively turning the steering wheel just after moving off will give an immediate indication that the power assistance is functioning.
Question 10
Tell me how you would switch your headlight from dipped to main beam and explain how you would know the main beam is on.
Answer: Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main beam warning light.
Question 11
Open the bonnet and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil.
Answer: Identify dipstick / oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum and maximum markers.
Question 12
Open the bonnet and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient engine coolant.
Answer: Identify high and low level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.
Question 13
Open the bonnet and tell me how you would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid.
Answer: Identify reservoir, check level against high and low markings.
Question 14
Tell me how you'd check that the horn is working. (Off-road only.)
Answer: Check is carried out by using control (turn on ignition if necessary).
Show Me Questions
Asked while you are driving. The examiner will ask one of these 7 questions during your test.
Question 1
When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the rear windscreen?
Answer: Operate rear screen wash and wiper using the correct control.
Question 2
When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you wash and clean the front windscreen?
Answer: Operate the windscreen washer and wiper to clean the screen.
Question 3
When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd switch on your dipped headlights?
Answer: Operate the headlight switch to dipped beam position and check the dashboard tell-tale light.
Question 4
When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd set the rear demister?
Answer: Operate the rear demister control and confirm it is on via the dashboard indicator. Switch off when no longer required.
Question 5
When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd operate the horn?
Answer: Operate the horn control (only when stationary in this scenario or when needed on the road).
Question 6
When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd demist the front windscreen?
Answer: Set the heater controls (temperature, fan speed and air direction) and operate the air conditioning or front demist control to clear the windscreen.
Question 7
When it's safe to do so, can you show me how you'd open and close the side window?
Answer: Operate the electric window switch on the door to lower then raise the window.
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Our DVSA approved instructors cover every Show Me, Tell Me question in your lessons across Rotherham & Sheffield — so you walk into your test fully prepared.