Show me and tell me: questions
At the beginning of your driving test, normally after the eyesight test, you will be asked two of the following questions. Note that questions using the word tell me only require you to explain the answer, questions using the words show me require you to actually demonstrate the answer. You will always be asked one of each.
1) Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine oil level and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil.
A: Point to the dip stick or oil level indicator. Explain to the examiner how you would check the oil level and that the level shouldn’t be above the maximum marker or below the minimum marker.
2) 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.
A: Point to the header tank (where fitted) or radiator filler cap. Explain to the examiner how you would top up to the correct level. Where there are level indicators, explain that the level should not be below the minimum marker or above the maximum marker.
3) Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level.
A: Point to the washer reservoir and explain how you would check the level. This will vary depending on the make and model of your car.
4) Open the bonnet, identify where the brake fluid reservoir is and tell me how you would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid.
A: Point to the reservoir and explain to the examiner that the fluid should not be below the minimum marker or above the maximum marker.
5) Tell me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car.
A: Explain to the examiner that you would operate the brake pedal and look at reflections in windows or garage doors etc. or ask someone to go to the rear of the vehicle and look.
6) Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.
A: Explain to the examiner that you would press the brake pedal with the engine running. The brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Also explain that the brakes should be tested again as you drive off. The vehicle should not pull to one side.
7)Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.
A: Explain to the examiner you will find the recommended tyre pressures in the manufacturer’s guide. Some cars also show tyre pressures on the driver’s door post. Explain that you would use a reliable pressure gauge and that you would adjust the pressures when the tyres are cold. Say you would also check the spare and remember to refit the valve caps when finished.
8) Tell me how you would check the tyres to ensure that they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road.
A: Explain that there should be no cuts or bulges and there must be a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm across the central 3/4 of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference (in other words, no bald patches at all).
9) Show me/explain how you would check that the power assisted steering is working before starting a journey.
A: Explain that if the steering is heavy the system may not be working properly. Show how you would test for this by explaining that, with the engine on, you apply gentle pressure to the steering wheel (in other words, try to turn it slightly) - turn the wheel slightly to show what you mean. Tell the examiner you would expect a slight movement as the system begins to operate. You can also explain that turning the steering wheel just after moving off will give an immediate indication if the system is working or not.
10) Show me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are working.
A: Turn on the ignition if necessary, operate the switch and walk around the vehicle to check.
11) Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working.
A: Apply the indicator switch or hazard warning switch and walk around the vehicle to check.
12) Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off road only).
A: Turn on the ignition if necessary and operate the horn (a brief beep will suffice!).
13) Show me how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear.
A: Press on the footbrake and release the handbrake. Show the examiner that, when you pull the handbrake back on, it secures itself and is not at the end of its working travel.
N.B. As of July 1st 2008, new questions have been added to the 'show me tell me' element of the practical driving test. These are as follows:
Tell me how you would make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash. A: 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.
Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers. A: Operate control to wash and wipe windscreen (turn ignition on if necessary).
Show me how you would set the demister controls to clear all the windows effectively, this should include both front and rear screens. A: Set all relevant controls including; fan, temperature, air direction/source and heated screen to clear windscreen and windows. Engine does not have to be started for this demonstration.
Show me how you would switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you would use it/them. (No need to exit vehicle) A: Operate switch (turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary). Check warning light is on. Explain use.
Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti-lock braking system. A: Warning light should illuminate if there is a problem with the anti-lock braking system.
Show me how you switch your headlights from dipped to main beam and explain how you would know the main beam is on whilst inside the car. A: Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main beam warning light.
