Learn about the ‘Show me, tell me’ section of your driving test – including tips on how to practise, and why it’s important to prepare.
Your driving test includes two questions to ensure you understand how to keep your vehicle safe.
‘Tell Me’ (Before driving): Explain how you would perform a safety task.
‘Show Me’ (While driving): Demonstrate a safety task, like turning on your windscreen wipers, while maintaining control of the car.
Because these questions impact your final score, it is important to practice. If you answer the ‘tell me’ question incorrectly, you will receive one minor fault. While one minor is unlikely to fail you, you must be careful, as accumulating 15 minor faults will lead to an overall test failure.
Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.
Manufacturer’s guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, don’t forget spare tyre, remember to refit valve caps.
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. Note: Some restraints might not be adjustable.
No cuts and bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tyre, and around the entire outer circumference of the tyre.
Explain you’d operate the switch (turn on ignition if necessary), then walk round vehicle (as this is a ‘tell me’ question, you don’t need to physically check the lights).
Warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti-lock braking system.
Explain you’d operate the switch (turn on ignition if necessary), and then walk round vehicle (as this is a ‘tell me’ question, you don’t need to physically check the lights).
Explain you’d operate the brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows or doors, or ask someone to help.
Before starting a journey, 2 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.
Operate switch (turn on dipped headlights and ignition if necessary). Check warning light is on. Explain use.
Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main beam warning light.
Identify dipstick/oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum and maximum markers.
Identify high and low level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.
Identify reservoir, check level against high and low markings.
You need to open the bonnet and tell the examiner how you’d do the check if you’re asked question 12, 13 or 14.
To answer this, you should operate the wiper stalk (usually by pushing it away from you) to trigger the washer fluid and the wiper blades, ensuring you keep your main attention on the road ahead while doing so.
To do this, pull the wiper stalk towards you and hold it. The washers will spray and the wipers will automatically clear the screen. Keep your eyes on the road through the glass as it clears, then release the stalk.
To do this, identify your light control (either a dial on the dashboard or a twist-switch on the stalk) and turn it to the dipped beam setting. You should see the green headlight symbol appear on your dashboard; do not look down at the switch for more than a second.
To do this, locate and press the button with the rectangular icon and three wavy arrows. You don’t need to look at it for long, just feel for the button and press it firmly to activate the heater.
To do this, press the center of the steering wheel or the designated horn button firmly. You only need to give a short, sharp beep to show you know where it is. Make sure you don’t do this if it might startle another driver or pedestrian.
To do this, press the button with the curved icon (it looks like a shield) or turn your fan dial to the “windscreen” symbol. You may also need to turn up the fan speed to show the examiner you are clearing the screen effectively.
To do this, use the window switch on your door handle. Press it down to open the driver’s side window slightly, then immediately pull the switch back up to close it. Keep your right hand on the steering wheel and use your left hand if the controls are on the console, or vice-versa.
Important Note: You do not have to do these immediately. If you are approaching a hazard, a turn, or a busy junction, wait until the road is straight and clear before you operate the controls. Safety is always your first priority!
